Saffron Wildbore
~ 3min read
~ 3min read
In the world of technology where innovation moves quickly and expectations are high, maintaining a healthy work-life balance can be a challenge.
That said, it’s far from impossible.
In fact, many professionals in the tech space are actively seeking ways to find that sweet spot between professional ambition and personal wellbeing. So, how difficult is it really to achieve work-life balance in the tech industry, and what can you do to make it work for you.
Let's break it down.
Work-life balance typically refers to how you divide your time and energy between your job and your personal life, whether that’s family, hobbies, rest, or personal development.
It’s rarely a perfect 50/50 split - and quite honestly it doesn’t need to be. Rather, it’s about feeling satisfied and fulfilled in both areas without constantly sacrificing one for the other.
According to Adobe’s Future Workforce Study, poor work-life balance is one of the top reasons Gen Z candidates turn down job offers. In an industry where talent is in high demand, that statistic speaks volumes.
There are some common challenges that can make achieving balance more difficult in the tech sector:
Long hours and overtime – Staying ahead of the curve and keeping up with the latest developments can often lead to extended working hours.
Blurred boundaries – With remote working and constant connectivity via smartphones, it’s easy to slip into the habit of replying to emails at night or doing "just one more task" outside of hours.
High-pressure deadlines – The tech industry is known for its fast pace. The pressure to deliver results quickly can leave professionals feeling overwhelmed or burnt out.
But here’s the important part: not all tech companies operate this way. Many genuinely value their employees’ wellbeing and encourage a healthy balance between work and life. If you’re feeling burnt out, it may not be the industry - it might be your specific work environment or personal expectations.
ere are some practical strategies to help you stay grounded:
Start by asking yourself a few key questions:
Am I satisfied with my professional progress?
Am I happy with my personal life?
Am I making too many sacrifices to maintain one over the other?
Where do I need to redirect my energy?
Taking stock of your values and goals can help you make conscious choices about how you spend your time.
Whether you're chasing a promotion or navigating a major project, managing your time well is essential. Plan your day, break tasks into manageable chunks, and always schedule in regular breaks.
If work is bleeding into your personal time, create firm boundaries - such as not checking emails after hours or keeping work apps off your personal devices.
Burnout is more common in tech than many realise, but it's not inevitable. The key is recognising stress before it spirals.
Don’t be afraid to ask for support if you need it. Delegating tasks, speaking with your manager, or even just having a chat with a colleague can make a big difference. Find out how to talk about mental health at work.
Outside of work, prioritise self-care. Whether it's exercising, meditating, or just spending time on a hobby you love, these activities are essential for maintaining mental wellbeing.
Your needs and priorities will shift over time. That’s completely normal. Make time to regularly reflect on what’s working and what isn’t.
Small, consistent adjustments can lead to a big improvement in your overall work life balance in tech.
So, is achieving work-life balance in the tech industry hard? It can be - but it’s absolutely achievable.
With the right mindset, supportive workplace, and clear personal boundaries, you can thrive professionally without burning out. Balance doesn’t mean doing everything perfectly, it means making thoughtful choices that align with your goals and wellbeing.
Ready to take the next step in your tech career without sacrificing your personal life? Check out our latest job opportunities and find a role that supports you.
Saffron Wildbore is a Senior Marketing Executive at mthree. She has worked in marketing, specialising in creating content for over 5 years. Saffron focuses on writing tips for graduates, Alumni interviews and more!
