It's 2017 and the work/life balance idea isn't a new one nor is it one we're moving closer to. Before the next phase of living-to-work is the expectation that we bring our toiletries and pajamas to work, try the following nine tried and tested work modifications that even the most antiquated workplace – and manager – will find hard to deny.

Reshuffle work hours ... go to art or music school

1. Start earlier, leave earlier. The key to making this work is being visible in the earlier hours. Respond to emails and distribute your best work when no one sees you at your desk. There'll be fewer distractions, you'll feel as though you have more of the day as stores will be open for hours when you leave, save time and stress in uncomfortable rush hour commutes, and still have energy to do things in the later part of the day.


2. Take long lunch breaks. Particularly if point one above isn't immediately possible, consider a two or three-hour lunch break and finish work later in the day. Use the time to walk or exercise, take a class, go home, nap, study, take up or do more of a hobby, run errands or start a side business.


3. Work from home. Start with one day, build up trust and go from there. The rules and benefits of point one above apply plus always be reachable, ensure you have a quiet workspace for conference calls, and have an internet backup plan, such as a mobile broadband modem.


4. Be happy where you sit. If you don't like the atmosphere, a negative colleague, you're too far from a window or maybe you'd be more effective and efficient elsewhere in the office, explain this to your manager. Recognizing what works for you and solving how you might work better always goes down well.


5. Propose relaxing activities to HR. Morning, lunch and evening yoga, tai chi or meditation classes are becoming more common at many professional firms and consultancies. Check the intranet or HR, or, propose a teacher yourself. You'll save money, time and have another calming channel available to you. Alternatively, save time and money by using corporate discounts at nearby gyms or clubs.


6. Reduce hours or go part-time. Obviously not a choice available to everyone, but maybe you're spending too much on luxury items, live with your parents or your partner earns significantly more. There's a risk that you won't have the option of going full-time again, but this is the optimum way of finding balance, happiness and other opportunities.


7. Utilize or propose lounge or quiet spaces. When you're stressed about work or personal matters, or simply need to concentrate, use these spaces – that's what they're there for. If your organization doesn't have any, look around for the least used meeting room and flag it with HR. Having a quiet place with comfortable sofas, bean bags and/or treadmill desks can make a huge difference on a stressful day.


8. Negotiate money for time. When your next remuneration discussion comes up, calculate the hours over the year that you could swap for a raise or bonus. Reshuffle work hours or days and go to art or music school, do something in the community, or just use it as free time.


9. Bring your pet to work. Usually 'pet' refers exclusively to dogs, but if you do have one and the office building you're in is pet-friendly, a monthly pet day – at first – can open up your network and communication lines, reduce stress, and make your best friend very happy.