The notion of work-life balance finds its roots in antiquity, with various historical examples illustrating the importance of taking breaks and detaching from professional responsibilities. One notable instance is traced back to the Industrial Revolution of the 1800s, which ushered in a transformative era. During this period, the recognition of the need for leisure time led to the establishment of weekends as a designated period for workers to unwind.
In this historical context, consider the emergence of the eight-hour workday championed by labor movements. The Haymarket affair of 1886 in the United States, where workers advocated for an eight hour workday, serves as a poignant example. The culmination of these efforts contributed to a significant shift in societal norms, allowing workers to enjoy dedicated time away from their labor intensive duties. This marked a crucial milestone in shaping the concept of work-life balance, as individuals could genuinely detach from their professional obligations once the workday concluded.
Fast forward to the present, the term ‘work-life balance’ emerged in the late 1970s in the UK and the mid-1980s in the US. Technological advancements, such as smartphones and remote working, have transformed the landscape, blurring the lines between professional and personal spheres. The 24/7 connectivity often means individuals find it challenging to ‘switch off,’ leading to a constant feeling of being ‘on-call.’
With reference to the principles of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs provides insights into the role of work in our lives. Maslow posits that basic physiological needs must be met before progressing to safety, love, and belonging. Work plays a crucial role in fulfilling
these foundational needs, providing income for sustenance, ensuring safety, and fostering a sense of belonging to a community.
However, at the pyramid’s summit lie needs that extend beyond the realm of work alone. Self-actualisation and aesthetic needs require time outside the professional sphere. This highlights the modern nature of the work-life balance concept; only when basic needs are met do individuals ponder the aesthetics of life and self actualisation.
Stress, while productive in moderation, can lead to severe mental health issues if prolonged. Burnout and depression are not only personal challenges but also pose a financial burden on businesses. Rest, particularly the ability to detach from work, proves instrumental in stress reduction.
A survey revealing that nearly half of individuals find their jobs ‘very’ or ‘extremely’ stressful underscores the growing importance of work-life balance. Balancing the scales is not just a personal quest but a crucial factor for economic well-being.
Defining the ideal work-life balance is subjective, varying from person to person and evolving over time. A reflective exercise involves asking two pivotal questions:
• How would I describe my life currently?
• How would I like to describe my life?
Aligning these answers unveils insights into one’s perception of life and the desired ideal.
Embarking on the journey to a harmonious work-life balance requires a thoughtful process. Here’s a suggested roadmap:
Understanding the Problem:
Keep a diary for a week, detailing time spent on work, personal activities, and chores. The results may surprise, as perceptions of balance often differ from reality.
Identifying the Ideal Scenario:
Employ strategic thinking by envisioning an ideal day and week. Clocks can be a useful visual aid, depicting how time should be allocated for work, leisure, and necessary tasks.
Implementing Key Changes:
Recognise the gap between the current situation and the ideal scenario. Identify three to five tangible changes that can facilitate the transition. For instance, setting boundaries for work-related activities during weekends or delegating chores to family members.
A Matter of Choice
Acknowledging that choices shape work-life balance is paramount. While external factors may influence choices, the ultimate control lies within. Valuing oneself and making deliberate choices to enhance life outside of work contribute to a balanced existence.
In reclaiming control, consider:
Prioritising Sleep and Exercise:
Prioritise adequate sleep and incorporate exercise, even if it’s a brief walk. Both contribute significantly to overall well-being. Managing Notifications:
Turn off notifications to mitigate the ‘always on’ feeling, fostering moments of genuine detachment.
Seeking Support:
Don’t hesitate to seek help or support. A coffee break with a friend or a conversation can provide a much-needed respite.
Achieving a reasonable work-life balance is within reach, but it requires intention. Taking control involves making deliberate choices and embracing the autonomy to prioritise what truly matters. Reassess your choices, and don’t be afraid to make changes. As you embark on this journey, you might be surprised at how small adjustments can lead to a more harmonious work-life symphony.