London. Manchester. Edinburgh. The UK’s major cities offer fast-paced jobs, global companies, and exciting career opportunities—but what’s the cost?
For many graduates entering sectors like law, finance, consulting, or media, the promise of “work hard, play hard” often tilts heavily toward the work. Long hours, unpredictable workloads, and high living costs can leave little time (or energy) for life outside the office.
So… is work-life balance in the city just a myth?
Not exactly—but it depends on your industry, employer, and boundaries.
• Finance & Law? Expect 60–80 hour weeks, especially early on.
• Tech & Startups? Some offer flexibility and remote options, but often blur work-life lines.
• Public sector, NGOs, or hybrid roles? More likely to respect your time—though often with lower starting pay.
Tips for finding balance:
• Research employer culture on sites like Glassdoor or The Student Room.
• Ask directly about work-life balance during interviews—it’s not a taboo.
• Set boundaries early and be honest about burnout.
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Bottom line: Work-life balance in the city isn’t a myth—but it’s something you have to actively seek, shape, and sometimes fight for. Choose employers who see you as a person, not just a resource