We’ve all heard the (untrue) story about a French law banning after-hours emails—but maybe it’s a concept worth exploring. Constantly checking messages may feel productive, but often it just fuels stress. Leeds-based life coach Melanie Allen suggests employers ask themselves: “Is this constant digital surveillance really boosting productivity—or just burning everyone out?”

Always saying yes? It might be time to rewire that reflex. “Don’t reply immediately,” says Allen. “Pause, assess, and if it doesn’t serve your priorities—just say no. And don’t feel you have to justify it.” Your mental health will thank you, and so will your boundaries.

The idea that more hours equals better results is outdated. Productivity expert Matt Might reframes the equation:
Output = work per hour × hours worked.
Instead of focusing on hours, aim to improve the work per hour. Prioritize, time-box tasks, and avoid time-wasters like unstructured meetings. British productivity is low despite long hours—maybe it’s time to work clever, not just more.

Before you shut down for the day, jot down any unfinished thoughts or tasks. Then? Shut the diary. Turn off the laptop. Close the door. Can’t mentally switch off? Try the “stop-breathe” technique: pause, take a slow breath, and acknowledge that your workday is done. Your brain (and your family) will appreciate the decompression time.

Perfectionism is productivity’s sneaky saboteur. “Sometimes, ‘good enough’ really is good enough,” says Allen. Whether it’s laundry done imperfectly by your partner or a presentation that’s 90% there—don’t sweat the small stuff. Give yourself permission to be human.

We all know someone who says, “I have to do everything around here.” If that’s you—pause. Martyrdom might feel noble, but it often breeds resentment. Delegating isn’t weakness; it’s smart. And it gives others the opportunity to step up.

If your schedule feels like an endless rush—from spin class to spreadsheets to date night—it might be time to slow your roll. “Those hooked on adrenaline often crash hard,” says Allen. It’s okay to rest. It’s necessary, even.

Work might be fulfilling now, but what happens if you can’t do it someday? Whether it’s due to job loss, burnout, or retirement, you’ll need something else to turn to. Hobbies may sound quaint—but having passions outside of work is crucial for long-term happiness.

Try this: don’t reply to work emails instantly. Set a 24–48 hour response window and communicate it clearly. As long as you’re reliable, people will adapt. And don’t fall into the trap of treating every text like a fire drill—refer back to Tip #2 and remember your right to say no.

Work-life balance isn’t one-size-fits-all. Millennials and Gen Z are especially keen on rewriting the rules—whether it’s remote work, flexible hours, or saying no to weekend emails. Find what balance means to you, and don’t let external “shoulds” dictate your life.