The stress levels in the advertising industry are well-known. High-stakes campaigns, tight deadlines, client demands, and long work hours can all contribute to a highly stressful environment. This chronic stress not only affects individual employees but also impacts overall team productivity and creativity.
As Felicia Kuschel, VP of Client Services at Group7even, puts it, "Your work and your personal life shouldn't be in competition. One needs to support the other. Our industry can sometimes mistake burnout for dedication. Your employees are the face of your company, and they need to be fresh-faced and happy to be there."
So how can professionals in the fast-paced advertising industry achieve and maintain a balance between their work and personal lives? Here are some practical tips.
Set Clear Boundaries
"In this industry, if you don't set boundaries, work can easily consume every waking moment," a veteran Account Director. Therefore, it's essential to establish clear boundaries between work and personal time. Avoid checking work emails after office hours or during weekends unless it's an emergency.
Time Management and Delegation
Knowing how to manage time efficiently can be a game-changer in balancing work and life. "One of the best things you can learn is that not every task requires your personal attention. Learn to delegate, trust the team around you, and manage your time effectively," suggests Michelle Andres.
Self-Care is Crucial
Self-care is not a luxury but a necessity in this high-stress industry. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, adequate sleep, and mindfulness activities like yoga and prayer can all contribute to managing stress and promoting overall well-being. Burnout stifles creativity. Take care of your mental and physical health.
Pursue Hobbies
Engaging in hobbies outside of work can be a fantastic stress buster. Reading, painting, gardening, playing a musical instrument, or any other hobby can divert your mind and reduce stress.
"Spending time outdoors, enjoying the fresh air, and spending time with friends and family is a reset button for me. When I decompress over the weekend, I am ready to take on the world on Monday," says Anne Good, an account executive at Group 7even.
Leverage Technology
The use of productivity apps can help streamline work, manage tasks, stay organized, and save time. They can assist you in managing your workload efficiently, thereby reducing stress.
Incorporating tools like Asana and Teams into our workflow has paid dividends. Our productivity has increased, which has allowed us to get more done in less time, and that has helped free up our personal time," added Kuschel.
In conclusion, achieving work-life balance in the high-stress world of advertising may seem challenging, but it is absolutely necessary and entirely possible. Remember, a balanced life enhances creativity, productivity, and overall happiness. The advertising industry, driven by innovation and creativity, stands to gain the most from employees who are happy, balanced, and stress-free.
As Andres says, "Work-life balance is not just about keeping employees healthy and happy. It's about securing the future of Group 7even."
