We often hear the phrase work-life balance, but for many of us, especially in the era of remote work and 24/7 notifications, achieving it can feel like chasing a mirage. I’ve learned that balance isn’t about dividing time equally – it’s about creating a sustainable rhythm between productivity and recovery. For me, the secret lies in two powerful concepts: active rest and clear boundaries.

The myth of doing nothing

When we think of rest, we usually picture lying on the sofa or binge-watching something mindless. While that has its place, I’ve found that active rest – engaging in restorative but energizing activities – is what truly helps me reset.

Running, gardening, and attending gym classes are my go-to forms of active rest.

They aren’t just hobbies; they’re anchors. After a long day of meetings and digital overload, a trail run or time spent tending to my plants recharges me in ways a nap never could. There’s something deeply grounding about reconnecting with my body and the present moment. It’s physical, yes – but most importantly, it’s emotional and mental recovery.

Active rest is about finding movement that restores you, not drains you. It’s not a workout – it’s a reset. The best way to find your ‘active rest’ activities is to think about any hobby or activity that occupies your mind enough that you can’t think about work.

Recognizing the blur

That changed when I made one simple but significant decision: I removed Outlook and Teams from my personal phone.

Before I understood the importance of boundaries, I found myself unable to switch off from work. I’d check Outlook on my phone out of habit, respond to Teams messages in the evening, and constantly feel “on.” Even when I wasn’t working, my brain was. It felt like my work had seeped into every corner of my life.

At first, it felt unnatural, like I might miss something important. But within a few days, the mental clarity was incredible. I was no longer tethered to the notifications that had been quietly dictating my attention. I started reclaiming my time, and more importantly, my headspace.

Setting boundaries without guilt

It can feel uncomfortable at first to set boundaries, especially if you’re used to being responsive or available around the clock. But boundaries aren’t barriers; they’re bridges to better wellbeing and longer-term productivity.

Here’s what’s helped me:

• Communicating expectations: I let my team and manager know my working hours and when I’m offline. That simple clarity sets the tone for mutual respect.
• Creating rituals: I bookend my workday with rituals — a short walk before I start, and a run or gym class after. It helps me mentally shift gears.
• Protecting personal space: My phone is now a work-free zone outside office hours. No exceptions.

You deserve to recharge

Work will always be there. Deadlines, emails, meetings – they never truly end. But your energy is finite. If you don’t actively invest in recovery, burnout becomes inevitable.

Active rest is not laziness. Boundaries are not selfish. Both are essential ingredients in a balanced, fulfilling life.

So next time you feel that familiar buzz from your phone or the pressure to “just check one more thing,” pause. Go for a run, pull some weeds in the garden, lift something heavy, or simply breathe. That moment of rest might just be the most productive thing you do all day.