Only one third of British employees happy with work-life balance, study shows

Research has suggested that better access to gym membership and exercise would help employees be more productive and make more time for socialising with family and friends

British workers believe their jobs now take up almost half of their life, a study has found.

Half of those polled agreed waking up in the morning and dreading the day ahead at work is a sure-sign you need to address your work-life balance, and one third agreed struggling to sleep and finding yourself regularly in a bad mood are other common signs.

In an ideal world, employees said they would prefer to see adults dedicating just 30 per cent of their lives to work and the other 70 to life. Just one third believe they have already struck their perfect work-life balance.

Work pressure and long hours were the most common factors cited as impacting work-life balance.

Seventy-five per cent of employees polled agreed regular exercise is a key factor in achieving a good work-life balance and nearly half said they find it easier to keep focused at work when they’ve hit the gym or made time for exercise. Around a third (35 per cent) also wished they had more time for exercise in order to "bridge the gap" between their work and home life.

Three fifths said they get their work done quicker and are more productive following a workout, meaning they are able to make more time for socialising, family and hobbies.

Researchers found those working for companies with fewer than 500 employees appeared to be more satisfied with their work-life balance, and dedicated less time to work, compared to workers at companies of 1,001 staff and more who dedicated 45 per cent of their time to work. Interestingly, those working for businesses of 251 to 500 staff were also the most satisfied with their current perks with 64 per cent in agreement, compared to only 42 per cent of those at companies of 1,001 or more employees.

Pietro Carmignani, CEO for Gympass, which commissioned the research, said: “The results make it clear that physical activity is an urgent matter to employees and that companies have an opportunity and responsibility to help solve the imbalance.”

“Organisations hold a unique position to promote higher activity levels, because they have credibility and massive reach among employees. It´s time they make the most of this.”

SWNS