Facts and figures

In 2016, 1.2 million employees preferred to spend less time at work and wanted a new work-life balance concept. At least there is land in sight thanks to more flexible working time models. IG Metall has just concluded a new collective agreement that allows employees to choose their own hours. And the trade union Verdi is calling for a 28-hour week. However, our expert Julia Scharnhorst knows that this mainly applies to large companies. In small and medium-sized companies, the classic working model usually prevails. The young generation, who place much more value on leisure, travel and vacations than on a career, can be helpful here. Employers will have to adapt to this.

What applies in other countries

It is worth taking a look at Denmark, where overtime is frowned upon and it is quite natural for even managers - whether male or female - to finish work on time, for example to pick up the children from nursery. Hygge is not just an interior design style, but a way of life. And makes the Danes the winners when it comes to the work-life balance concept. Here in Germany, on the other hand, employers still put a lot of the burden of flexibility on their employees, as our expert explains. Some expect constant availability, even on vacation. Fear of losing their job or being displaced by younger employees also keeps many on the treadmill. We have put together some interesting facts about work-life balance and tips on how to harmonize your life in all areas. And if all else fails: How about Denmark?

The expert interview

with Julia Scharnhorst, psychologist specializing in mental health in the workplace. Find out more at: www.health-professional-plus.de

She doesn't really like the term work-life balance. It sounds like two opposites that have to be reconciled. "But the two belong together and there is a smooth transition," says the psychologist. She likes to talk about life balance. After all, people want their lives to be balanced.

Is balancing it all down to the employee?

"Not only, but a large part of it. A lot is put on employees, because there are hardly any jobs left where people work to a time clock. This increases the pressure on employees as to how much they are prepared to work. So that means you need very good self-management these days."

Does the younger generation have a different attitude to work and life?

"Definitely in any case. Young people place more value on vacations and free time and want more flexible working models. They don't mind working evenings or weekends and having more free time during the traditional working day. They've grown up in the digital age, so it's completely normal for them to be available at all times."

But constant availability can also be a problem?

"Exactly. They have to set boundaries and manage their time. If the boss calls on a Sunday morning, I should think twice about answering the phone. The same applies to working from home. Not everyone can do that. If your girlfriend calls, for example, you have to know whether you're going to answer the phone and add working time or not pick up now and call back later."

Will we be moving towards working from home everywhere?

"Certainly in many areas. But there are professions that will always require presence. But work is becoming more flexible, for example, shift systems need to be reconsidered. In nursing, for example, there's a lot more to do in the morning."

Do you have an ultimate tip for achieving a good balance in life?

"You have to know what's important to you. Work, free time, money? You should go your own way and not be swayed by others."

8 tips for achieving the perfect balance

First things first: not everything always has to be perfect - and saying no is definitely part of it.

1. the essentials:
Separate the important from the unimportant. What is not worth mentioning is left for now - and gives you valuable time for yourself or with others.

2. stress and relaxation:
Exceptionally hectic, busy days are quite normal. The important thing is that they are only a phase. Everyone needs a time to relax. Constant stress leads to physical and mental exhaustion. If you can't switch off, you will fall ill more often.

3. order is a must:
It is actually enormously helpful to keep things tidy. Take a few minutes every day to sort through your papers or tidy your desk at work.
briefly tidy your desk at work. This will prevent you from ending up with a huge pile of things.

4. unpleasant things first:
Don't put off the unpleasant things - whether at home or at work. The longer you put them off, the more stressful they become as thoughts at the back of your mind.

5. set goals:
Be clear about what you want and formulate these goals clearly and precisely. Vague plans are forgotten much more quickly. Instead of "I need to do more sport", it would be better to say: "I'll cycle for an hour every Saturday from now on."

6 Delegate work:
Don't always do everything yourself because it's supposedly quicker or out of fear that others might do it wrong. Colleagues and family members are just as good at helping out - even if they might have to practise it first.

7 Don't do everything at once:
Often less really is more. Don't plan all your time down to the minute. A loose schedule creates space for creativity and spontaneity.

8 Reflection is everything:
Take stock from time to time. What am I doing right now? Where am I at? What do I need? Am I happy? If everything fits, that's great, if not, you should realign your life.