Ever find yourself questioning how many more hours of work you could manage if you hooked yourself up to a caffeine I.V drip? Are your friends on the verge of reporting you as a missing person after you bailed on the 5th catch up in a row?

So many of us are torn between getting through their ever-increasing workloads and enjoying a great lifestyle, but as that kid in the taco commercial said: “Porque no los dos?”

For those of us who don’t speak Spanish (and somehow haven’t seen the Old El Paso commercial) this phrase means ‘why not both?’ and, whilst nothing can ever be perfect, we’re sharing six techniques team Flaunter use to put a little more life back into our work/life balances- hopefully, they help you out too.

Back away from the iPhone

This rule also applies to iPads, laptops, email alerts, work software and tablets (so no cheating on a technicality). When you get home, arrive in both body and mind by making a point of not accessing work files, replying to emails, or organising the next day through your smartphone. Even if you’re pseudo-chilling on your sofa, you’re not giving your brain the proper break it needs by constantly thinking about the office.

Bonus tip! Consider keeping your phone, laptop and TV out of your bedroom. Research shows that the simple act of making your bedroom a ‘sleep only’ space not only helps you fall asleep faster but increases the quality of your sleep.

Hit the hard stuff as soon as you start work

As soon as you arrive at work for the day, take 20 intentional minutes to plan your day. Identify the key tasks and the must be completed tasks for the day – not just what’s urgent, but what will move your goals forward. Write them down, rank them by priority and then block out time to get them done.

Next, tackle the most important or time-sensitive tasks first. This approach, sometimes referred to as “eating the frog” – helps you build early momentum and ensures the essential work doesn’t get buried under the distractions or last-minute surprises.

By tackling your day from the get-go with purpose and direction, you’ll reduce decision fatigue, stay focused, and be far less likely to work overtime by trying to catch up. You’ll (hopefully) be able to leave the office with a clear head and your to-do list checked off – you can then spend the afternoon or weekend relaxing… not stressing about what needs to be done tomorrow.

Spend a couple of hours each week on meal prep

There’s nothing worse than coming home from a busy workday, opening the fridge and spending half an hour trying to cobble together something meal-adjacent from the 2 eggs, half a jar of jam and sad carrot lurking in your fridge. That’s where meal prep saves the day. Spending just an hour or two on a Sunday planning and prepping your lunches and dinners can make the rest of your week feel way more manageable. It cuts down decision fatigue, saves you from impulsive (and expensive) takeaway orders, and gives you back precious weeknight time.

Our fav? Cook up a giant batch of mince (or beans/lentils for my vegetarian brethren) combine with chopped vegetables, then portion it out with rice or pasta and serve with different sauces: Spag bol, Hoisin & chilli sauce, for example. Variety with barely any added effort!

Talk it out

Now, we’re not speaking for everyone when we say this — because let’s face it, sometimes bosses just aren’t that great. But truthfully, 90% of workplace tension can be eased with clear, respectful communication. Employers are aware a lot of us are burning the candle at both ends, and economically, they want you to be a functional member of their team, not so frazzled that you’re a crying husk under your desk.

If you need to leave work a little early for a family dinner, or an extended break to fit in that doctor’s appointment you’ve been avoiding, say something. Most will be open to helping you work your schedule in such a way that allows you a little breathing room where possible. So, the next time you’re feeling off because you have a million and one things to get done, don’t stew on it. Draft a clear message or ask for a quick check-in. Your mental clarity - and your relationship with your boss - will likely be better for it.

Schedule those friendship catchups

We get it… once you’ve been going back and forth with your friend for hours, exchanging several “Can’t that day, work ” or “Ugh, I’ve got something on,” it’s tempting to just give up altogether. Just like anything, it’s hard to persevere when it feels like a losing battle – “don’t worry, we’ll see each other at Ben and Kim’s wedding (next year)”.

But here’s the trick: even if it’s 5 weeks away, just lock it in. Instead of volleying back and forth with maybe’s, treat it like a work meeting – it must get done. Add it to your calendar, set reminders, and honour it like you would any other commitment.

Real friendship takes effort – and when life gets chaotic, having something to look forward to (like a catch up with a friend that gets you) is one of the best forms of self-care… and trust me, you both need it.

Give your hobbies some respect

We block out time for meetings, deadlines, and errands — so why don’t we do the same for our hobbies? You know, the things we actually enjoy doing. Whether it’s reading, painting, crocheting or kicking a ball around – hobbies deserve a place in the schedule and not just a spot in your “‘someday” pile.

In a culture that glorifies productivity, it’s easy to treat enjoyment like a luxury - something you’ll get to if there’s time. And while hobbies might feel like a “nice-to-have” rather than a “need-to-do,” the reality is quite the opposite.

Engaging in something purely for the love of it - no outcome, no pressure, no KPI - actually helps you recharge, re-centre, and show up better in every area of your life… work included.

Need some extra help managing it all at work?

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6 Ways to Reclaim Your Work-Life Balance Without Sacrificing Success