Home used to be the place we came back to after work—the safe haven where we could kick off our shoes, unwind, and be ourselves. But over the past few years, many of us have found ourselves blurring the lines between our personal lives and professional obligations, as working from home has gone from a novelty to the norm.
While remote work brings flexibility and freedom, it can also make it harder to switch off, set boundaries, and truly relax. The place we once associated with downtime has become our office, our gym, our childcare centre, and our everything else. So, how can you protect your wellbeing and create a healthy work-life balance when your home doubles as your workplace?
Here’s how to navigate the blurred boundaries and reclaim your sense of balance.
1. Redefine Your Workday
Without the structure of commuting, it's easy to start work earlier, take fewer breaks, or let your working day bleed into the evening. The trick is to create a clear schedule and stick to it.
Start and end your day at roughly the same time every day. Use that extra time in the morning—previously spent travelling—to do something for you: stretch, go for a walk, read, or just enjoy a coffee in silence. Bookend your workday with rituals that help you transition into and out of work mode, even if it’s just changing your clothes or stepping outside for a few minutes.
2. Set Physical Boundaries (Even in Small Spaces)
Not everyone has the luxury of a home office, but that doesn’t mean you can’t create separation. Whether it’s a designated desk in the corner of your living room or a spot at the kitchen table, having a specific work area helps you mentally clock in and out.
If space is tight, try packing away your laptop and notepad at the end of each day. The physical act of clearing away your work tools can signal to your brain that the working day is done.
3. Take Proper Breaks (Yes, Away from the Screen)
When you’re working from home, it’s tempting to power through the day without a proper pause. But skipping breaks isn’t a badge of honour—it’s a recipe for burnout.
Schedule in regular breaks, including a proper lunch away from your screen. Even ten minutes in the garden or a short walk around the block can do wonders for your mood and focus. And if you can, avoid using breaks to scroll on your phone—try stretching, calling a friend, or just resting your eyes instead.
4. Communicate Your Boundaries
One of the biggest challenges of working from home is that others—be it colleagues or family—might not respect your boundaries unless you spell them out.
Let your team know your working hours and when you’re available for calls or emails. Use calendar tools or status settings to show when you’re focusing or offline. And at home, be honest with family or housemates about when you need quiet time to concentrate and when you’re free to chat.
5. Make Time for Real Downtime
When work is just a click away, it’s easy to sneak in “just one more email” late at night. But true rest is essential—not just for your productivity, but for your wellbeing.
Switch off work notifications in the evening. Create wind-down routines to help you move into relaxation mode—whether that’s cooking, reading, watching a film, or having a chat over dinner. The aim is to shift your brain out of work mode and into rest-and-recharge mode.
6. Get Moving
Physical activity is one of the best ways to boost your mood and reduce stress, but working from home often means fewer steps and more sitting.
Try to incorporate movement into your day. That might mean a quick yoga session in the morning, standing during calls, or walking to your favourite coffee spot at lunchtime. Regular movement helps you stay energised and mentally sharp.
7. Don’t Neglect Social Connection
One of the hidden downsides of working from home is isolation. Without the casual chats and camaraderie of the office, it’s easy to feel disconnected.
Make an effort to check in with colleagues beyond work talk—send a message just to say hello or suggest a virtual coffee break. And outside of work, prioritise social time with friends and loved ones. Even short catch-ups can help you feel more grounded and supported.
8. Be Kind to Yourself
It’s important to remember that working from home doesn’t mean working perfectly. Some days will be productive, others won’t. That’s life—and that’s okay.
Wellbeing isn’t about getting everything right; it’s about giving yourself the grace to adapt, take breaks, and listen to what you need. If things feel overwhelming, pause, breathe, and ask for help if you need it.
Final Thought
Achieving a work-life balance while working from home is a continuous process—not a fixed destination. As your routines and responsibilities shift, so too should your strategies for managing them. By setting boundaries, protecting your time, and putting your wellbeing first, you can create a healthier, more sustainable rhythm that lets you thrive—both professionally and personally.