Are you looking for a way to achieve a better work-life balance? You’re not the only one! These days, employees everywhere are recognizing the value of achieving a better balance between their personal and professional lives, and the good news is that more and more employers are listening. However, you can’t just walk into their office one day and demand it – you need to know how to ask for flexible work arrangements so that your boss is more willing to accommodate your request.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through some simple steps to help you successfully achieve a more flexible schedule.

Why Ask for Flexible Work Arrangements?

There’s no doubt that flexible work arrangements can make a big difference in your life. After all, it often means you can adjust your work schedule, work from home, or even work fewer hours. This can help you balance your job and your personal life, giving you more time for your family, your hobbies, or simply avoiding long commutes. 

Indeed, this flexibility can make your life better – but you have to successfully ask for it first!

How to Ask for Flexible Work Arrangements

Ready to approach your employer with confidence? Follow our steps below to ask for a more flexible schedule and a better work-life balance in the process.

1. Check the Rules

Before you ask for flexibility, it’s important to find out if your company has any rules about it. See, some companies already have guidelines and policies in place that explain how flexible work arrangements work. By understanding these rules, you can prepare and make your request go more smoothly.

2. Think About What You Need

Now, it’s time to think about what kind of flexibility would work best for you. Do you need a different work schedule to match your family’s needs? Or maybe you’d like to spend more time working from home to avoid long commutes. Identifying what you need will help you make a clear and compelling request.

3. Make a Plan

To ask for flexible work arrangements successfully, you’ll want to make a clear plan. So, write down what you’re asking for and explain how it can help both you and your employer. It’s even better if you can show how you’ll be able to continue doing your job well, even with the changes you’re requesting. Having a well-thought-out plan can make a big difference in how your request is received.

4. Timing is Important

Choosing the right time to ask for flexibility can be a key factor in getting a positive response. It’s often a good idea to bring up the topic during your yearly job performance review or when you’re discussing your goals for the upcoming year. If the timing of your request aligns with your company’s planning and evaluation processes, it may increase the chances of success.

5. Talk to Your Boss

Finally, it’s time to set up a meeting to discuss your plan with your boss. Having a face-to-face conversation is usually more effective than sending an email, as it allows you to answer questions and address any concerns in real-time. It also shows your commitment to your request and demonstrates that you’re willing to engage in open and honest communication. Ultimately, a meeting can provide an opportunity for a productive conversation.

The Bottom Line

By following these simple steps and explaining your needs in a clear and easy-to-understand way, you can confidently ask for flexible work arrangements. It may seem intimidating, but remember, many companies these days are open to making your job better suited to your life, so don’t hesitate to ask for what you need! You may just be surprised by the result.

Need a place to get some work done on your new flexible schedule? If so, you’ve come to the right place! Click here to see what La Collective Cowork has to offer, and inquire about a workspace today.

Working remotely can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, you have the freedom to structure your day as you please, but on the other, it’s all too easy for work and personal life to blur into an indistinguishable mess. So, to help you find that sweet spot, we’ve put together four tried-and-true tips for achieving a better work-life balance while working remotely. Let’s dive in!

1. Embrace the Power of Routine

When your commute is just a few steps from your bedroom to your home office, it’s tempting to skip the morning rituals that once marked the start of your workday. However, you should resist the urge to work in your pyjamas all day long (as cozy as it might be). Instead, work on establishing a daily routine to structure your time.

Now, this might take some discipline at first, but it will help you compartmentalize your day and keep work from seeping into your evenings and weekends. Plus, having a structured day can increase your sense of productivity and accomplishment.

2. Create a Dedicated Workspace

Working from the comfort of your own home offers many perks, but it also presents the challenge of distinguishing between work and personal life. So, to maintain a healthy work-life balance, designate a specific area as your home office, even if it’s just a corner of your living room or a desk in your bedroom.

Once you find the perfect spot, feel free to personalize your workspace with items that motivate you and make it an inspiring environment. But most importantly, when you finish work for the day, step away from your designated workspace to signify the end of your work hours. This simple ritual helps you mentally switch off and transition to your personal life, even when your office is just steps away.

3. Take Breaks to Recharge – Mindful Rest

In the remote work world, it’s easy to find yourself glued to your computer for hours on end, plowing through tasks without a break. However, this constant focus can lead to burnout, decreased productivity, and a deteriorating work-life balance.

Therefore, to help maintain your well-being and productivity, make it a habit to take regular breaks during your workday. Don’t be afraid to step away from your desk, stretch your legs, and engage in activities that clear your mind and refresh your energy. Whether it’s a quick stroll, a few minutes of stretching, or just enjoying a coffee on your porch, these moments of relaxation can significantly boost your focus and mood.

4. Join a Coworking Space

Finally, one of the best ways to regain your work-life balance is to join a coworking space. These shared work environments offer structure, a dedicated workspace, and a community of like-minded individuals. Plus, you’ll have access to amenities, networking opportunities, and the chance to collaborate, all while leaving work behind when you exit the space. You certainly can’t do that from home!

Ultimately, coworking spaces offer a refreshing change of scenery and a supportive atmosphere, creating a clear divide between your work and personal life. Besides, the flexibility to choose when and where to work within the coworking space adds an extra layer of balance to your routine.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, remote work doesn’t have to be a constant struggle between your job and personal life. By embracing a daily routine, setting up a dedicated workspace, taking breaks, and considering a coworking space, you can achieve a better work-life balance that lets you savour both the joys of work and the joys of life. Remember, it’s not about working harder; it’s about working smarter to enjoy the best of both worlds. Good luck!

Interested in a coworking space? If so, you’ve come to the right place! Click here to see what La Collective Cowork has to offer, and inquire about one of our workspaces today.