In the metropolises African cities like Kigali, Rwanda, the incessant buzz of work often drowns out the rhythm of life. For Keza, a young professional in the finance sector, this reality was all too familiar. Surrounded by the relentless demands of her job—tight deadlines, endless meetings, and the relentless pursuit of excellence—her personal time became a mere afterthought, overshadowed by the constant pressure to perform. Unfortunately, Keza’s experience mirrors that of countless others across the continent.
Statistics paint a grim picture of mental health in African workplaces. In many high-stress industries, employees face a daily battle to maintain a semblance of balance between their professional obligations and personal well-being. The pressure to keep up with the rapid pace of economic growth often results in a sacrifice of mental and physical health. The lack of job security exacerbates this issue, with employees fearing that failure to work long hours will result in swift replacement. The economic instability also adds its load on the job insecurity since employees might get laid off any time. Vacation time becomes a distant luxury, with some employees going years without a proper break, while others find themselves juggling the workload of two people.
In this challenging landscape, the onus falls not only on employees but also on employers to cultivate a healthier working culture. Paired with a legal landscape that not only establishes healthy working hours, but also monitors and protects employee’s right to enjoy days off and vacation.
Establishing boundaries between work and personal life is crucial, allowing employees to recharge and avoid burnout. Prioritizing self-care activities during and after work such as exercise, meditation, or hobbies, can significantly improve mental well-being. Furthermore, fostering a supportive environment where colleagues can lean on each other during tough times is essential.
Embracing flexibility in work arrangements can also ease the burden on employees, allowing them to better balance their professional and personal commitments. Employers must also prioritize tasks effectively, ensuring that employees do not become overwhelmed by their workload. By breaking down daunting tasks into manageable chunks, both productivity and morale can be boosted.
As champions of employee well-being in Africa, it’s imperative that we work together to foster a culture that values work-life balance. At iWIA, we are dedicated to supporting both employers and employees in achieving this equilibrium. Whether you’re seeking personal growth or aiming to cultivate a resilient workforce where success is measured not just by professional accomplishments but also by the quality of life enjoyed by all, we are here to assist.
Here are some tips:
1. Foster Support groups in the workplace:
Support groups in the workplace create spaces where employees can connect and share experiences, providing mutual support and promoting mental well-being among colleagues.
2. Have Open doors sessions or Town Hall meetings:
Open meetings provide a platform for employees to voice their concerns and suggestions, promoting transparency and mental well-being in the workplace.
3. Respect opening and closing working times:
Respecting time off is crucial for maintaining mental health in the workplace by ensuring employees have ample time to rest and recharge their batteries out of work.
4. Implement a zero-tolerance harassment policy:
Policies regulating harassment are crucial to maintaining a psychologically safe workplace where every employee can thrive without fear of emotional or mental harm.
5. Promote Physical activities at work:
Practicing well-being activities at work can significantly boost mental health enhancing focus, reducing stress, and fostering a positive workplace environment.
6. Celebrate achievements:
Recognition in the workplace boosts mental health by fostering a culture of acknowledgement and appreciation, which enhances job satisfaction and employee morale.
Remember, finding balance is a journey that begins with a commitment to prioritise well-being amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, anywhere you may be.
