Work/Life Balance 1: Two Views of Work/Life Balance

Over the next few weeks we will explore how to balance your work with the rest of your  life

Lately, people hear, read, and talk about work-life balance. Frequently, people use the same words, but see different views. We will begin our series by exploring two views: 1) how employers view work-life balance and 2) how you, the worker, views work-life balance. Clarifying terms allows us arrive at common understanding in future posts.

Balancing Work & Life Does Not Mean

We will begin to illustrate the definition of work/life balance by excluding non-applicable parts. WorkLifeBalance.com reminds us that

• “Work-Life Balance does mean an equal balance.”
• “Your best individual work-life balance will vary over time.”
• “There is no perfect, one-size fits all, balance you should be striving for.”

Work & Life Balance Definition for Companies

WFC Resources defines work-life balance

“Work-life is the practice of providing initiatives designed to create a more flexible, supportive work environment, enabling employees to focus on work tasks while at work.” Notice this definition focuses on companies providing balance to employees.

The Department of Labor (DOL) also states

“Employees in companies already implementing work-life practices enjoy significant benefits such as:

• Being able to effectively manage multiple responsibilities at home, work and in the community without guilt or regret.
• Being able to work in flexible ways so that earning an income and managing family/other commitments become easier.
• Being part of a supportive workplace that values and trusts staff. “

Work & Life Balance Definition for You, the Worker

The DOL, however, shares a definition from New Zealand from the worker’s viewpoint:

“Work-life balance is about effectively managing the juggling act between paid work and other activities that are important to us - including spending time with family, taking part in sport and recreation, volunteering or undertaking further study.

Research suggests that improving the balance between our working lives and our lives outside work can bring real benefits for employers and employees. It can help build strong communities and productive businesses. “

Wednesday we explore why balancing work and life benefits your health, emotions, & mind