Mastering Work-Life Balance in a Remote Team

At Apliteni, a remote-first company, we believe that true happiness comes from flexibility. Unlike traditional workplaces with rigid schedules, we offer our specialists the freedom to manage their own time. We don’t have fixed working hours. Some take their kids to the pool, some go to the doctor in the daytime, and make up for it when it’s convenient for them. 

We see work-life balance as standing on a balance board: it’s challenging and constantly changing. It’s not a final destination but a lifelong process of swaying and readjusting. Therefore, any best practices for work-life balance should be viewed through the lens of individual and organizational needs.

Understanding Personal Needs

Work-life balance starts with recognizing and understanding one’s needs and values. For some people, work is life. For others, having something meaningful beyond work is essential, whether it’s a hobby, sports, or spending time with family. 

Some gain insights into what they truly want and value in therapy. Others may find self-reflection just as effective. The key is to ask yourself critical questions about your desires and priorities: What brings you joy? What do you want to do but never seem to have time for? You must continuously check in with yourself to understand your current needs and be self-aware and self-organized to achieve the desired balance. Take responsibility for both your work and your leisure time. 

Setting Boundaries and Planning Ahead

Learning to say no is crucial in maintaining a healthy work-life balance. It’s about setting boundaries and knowing your limits. Managing your workload realistically is important to maintain quality and prevent burnout. Planning for only 60% of your work time and leaving 40% for unexpected tasks, as well as personal time management misgivings, will ensure you have time for everything​.

You shouldn’t be afraid to set aside specific time for non-work activities, prioritizing them because you know they are important for your well-being. Planning ahead and creating routines can also help sustain a balanced lifestyle.

And if you feel like you’re getting burned out or unable to perform well today, you can freely take a paid day off at Apliteni, and they’re unlimited. Sitting in front of a computer for 8 hours doing nothing is useless for both the company and the person.

Utilizing Productivity Practices

Effective use of productivity practices can significantly enhance work-life balance. Techniques like the Pomodoro or having a Bullet Journal–our specialists can find this and other books in our corporate library and read them on their new Kindle, courtesy of Apliteni–can help manage time. However, it’s essential to find a system that works for you, whether adhering to deadlines, taking regular breaks, or diving into deep work.

Delegating tasks is another important practice for maintaining balance. Sharing responsibilities helps prevent overload and ensures that work-life balance is a collective effort supported by the company.

Embracing Flexibility and Remote Work

Flexibility and remote work arrangements are fundamental for a healthy work-life balance. At Apliteni, we support practices like walk-and-talk during calls or working outside to promote wellness.

Some companies have strict working hours. Our approach is more flexible: you set your schedule. Firstly, that’s because we are a remote-first company and have specialists living in different timezones–from New York to the Philippines. Just make sure to attend a few essential team sync calls, scheduled at a convenient time, and finish your tasks to the best of your ability.

Choosing the Company That Is Right for You

The journey to work-life balance begins with the job search. Each company has its own culture, and it’s crucial to find one that aligns with your personal needs. Don’t be afraid to ask the recruiter questions during the interview process, and state your expectations. This way, there is a much higher chance of a perfect match. For example, Apliteni’s approach works well for those who are self-organized, responsible, and self-aware.

At Apliteni, we provide tools and resources to support work-life balance, including compensation for sports and health activities, educational opportunities, books, and home office setups, aside from unlimited PTO. However, it’s up to individuals to utilize these resources effectively.

The two essential steps are understanding your needs and choosing a company that supports your lifestyle. Everyone’s work-life balance is different, and that’s okay as long as it is fulfilling. By embracing flexibility and prioritizing personal well-being, Apliteni creates an environment where specialists can thrive both professionally and personally.