Balancing Work And Life: Coping With Hybrid Lifestyles

Since Covid-19 upended our lives, many employees around the world have settled into the rhythms of mandatory remote work. For some, the blurring of boundaries between home and work has caused stress, anxiety and uncertainty, as well as larger workloads. Indeed, recent data from Private Client by Bupa[i] shows that almost half of HNWI (high-net-worth individuals) (48%) have been unwell with a mental or physical illness over the last year but have not had the time to seek medical assistance.

On the other hand, for some, working from home has offered significant benefits – including a better work life balance, more flexibility and more freedom. And now, as companies try to decide the best way forward for their workers, it’s clear that many employees don’t want to return to the office full time.

It’s likely that many will see ‘hybrid’ working models implemented – delivering flexibility while maintaining an in-person office experience. So, what steps can people take to protect their mental and physical wellbeing as we enter into a new way of working?

Focus on the ‘work-life’ balance you want

The good news is that the pandemic has prompted many to pay more attention to their physical and emotional wellbeing. A recent Private Client by Bupa study found that two thirds (67%) of HNWIs have been encouraged to prioritise their wellbeing – and it’s likely this trend will continue for the long-term.

Dr Robin Clark, Bupa Global Medical Director says, “this is important for protecting wellbeing and mental health. We also believe that individuals, families and employers must be committed to talking openly about concerns, and to seeking help early.”

Protect your time

It’s crucial to re-evaluate your schedule as routines change and diaries fill up. “Ensure you are building downtime as well as social and work activities into your schedule,” says Dr Clark.

It's also important to avoid slipping back into some bad habits and routines from pre-pandemic and assess what might cause professional or personal burnout. Treat this as a new beginning for your work-life balance – embracing the additional control you might now have over how your time is spent.

Get professional help when you need it

Stigmas around mental health conditions can lead to delays in getting treatment. But early diagnosis can have a positive impact on the long-term prognosis.

Dr Clark concludes: “At Bupa Global, we recognise that mental health is just as important as physical health and believe in helping people to feel their best and stay that way too. We know that when a family member is struggling with their mental health, it can impact the whole family – that’s why we offer extensive mental health cover for individuals and their families.”

Private Client by Bupa curates exceptional health and wellbeing services bringing them together in one simple package with one single point of contact. From our award-winning medical cover at home or abroad provided by Bupa Global; to rich, proactive, preventive wellbeing benefits; to a Global Virtual Care app giving you access to video consultations in the comfort of your own home.

For more information on Private Client by Bupa, please visit bupaprivateclient.com or call us on 0371 346 0407.

Calls may be recorded. Private Client by Bupa is a premium service providing expertly curated health and wellbeing plans insured by Bupa Global.

Bupa Global is a trading name of Bupa Insurance Limited and Bupa Insurance Services Limited. Bupa Insurance Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Bupa Insurance Services Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Global Virtual Care is not regulated or authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority nor Prudential Regulation Authority.

[i] Private Client by Bupa research conducted by Censuswide among 252 UK HNWIs with assets / income £1M + (excluding main home) from 13.07.2021 - 21.07.2021