In an increasingly digital world, the lines between work and play are blurring. With ubiquitous Internet access and presence in most urban areas, we often start, spend, and end the day online. In a fast-paced and competitive work environment, individuals may often find themselves having to trade off personal commitments and pursuits with professional success. At the heart of this trade off is achieving what is known as work-life balance (WLB).
In practice, measuring and defining WLB is a challenging task. This is because conceptualizations of “work” and “life” (and “balance”) often vary across societies and cultures. For example, in more individualistic societies, spending time pursuing one’s hobbies or interests may be considered as contributing to WLB. In more collectivistic cultures, time away from work could usually mean spending time with one’s family or friends. The expectations of society also shape the extent to which WLB is valued by individuals as well as by companies. Finally, company culture and structure also determines how important WLB is from a business perspective. Multinational companies operating in both individualistic and collectivistic societies could face challenges in terms of promoting WLB using the same employee policies.
Since WLB varies across contexts, it is important to look at different research studies that operationalize these terms in different ways. For instance, studies highlight the relative effectiveness of the below interventions in promoting wellness and WLB among employees. Unfortunately, most of these were conducted in developed countries and may not fully reflect the wider range of WLB interventions that could boost employee wellness (and productivity). So let us look at some of the key initiatives that could help in bringing about a better WLB in general.
Self-Rostering
One simple idea to promote WLB is to give employees control over their time spent at work. Otherwise known as providing flexible work hours, there is evidence from an intervention in Denmark that indicates it could be helpful. In this intervention, researchers found that increasing worker satisfaction and allowing them to self-roster (i.e., sign up for work hours) helped decrease work-family and marital conflicts as well.
Encouraging Time Off
Another, more direct way to promote WLB is to encourage employees to take some time off. This can have some promising impacts, as documented in a study in Finland where employees can undertake Off-job time crafting. Off Job time crafting in simple terms intentionally shaping our leisure hours to align with our passions and values. This allows us to craft a rich and fulfilled life beyond the confines of work. It is important to note that such interventions might also require technological support and close monitoring for achieving success.
Wellness Programs
Employee wellness programs are a vital cornerstone of modern workplace culture. In an era where employee burnout and stress are pervasive, fostering wellness is not just a perk but a necessity in creating WLB. These programs encompass a wide range of initiatives aimed at improving physical, mental, and emotional well-being among staff. One such program is WISER which is a web based program that has shown to reduce emotional burnout among Health care workers using Positive Psychology. Conducting Mindfulness training at the workplace too has shown to increase job satisfaction, attentional focus and WLB.
Clear Communication
Communication is a key factor in achieving WLB. It hinges on setting clear expectations with your employer and colleagues, delineating boundaries, and embracing flexibility when possible. Prioritizing tasks through open dialogue can prevent overload. Equally vital is communicating your availability to family and friends, allowing them to respect your work commitments. Remember, effective communication is a two-way street, where listening is as crucial as speaking.
Timely check ins and appraisals
Appraisals should be conducted with fairness and transparency addressing areas that need improvement or acknowledging achievements. Allocating bonuses should be considered as it boosts productivity, morale and motivation. However, it's crucial to base bonuses on measurable accomplishments rather than favoritism. Transparent appraisal, consistent check ins and fair bonuses create a positive work environment where the employees feel valued, encouraging them to work with enthusiasm.
Take feedback from the employees
Feedback is another important factor for maintaining Work Life Balance. It allows employees to gauge their performance and make necessary adjustments to their workload, time management, and priorities. Feedback is a two way channel, feedback provided by employees to their managers or supervisors should be considered. Ultimately, feedback empowers individuals to adapt and refine their approach, ensuring that both their professional and personal lives coexist harmoniously.
Encourage breaks during office hours
In our fast-paced world, many tend to overlook the importance of taking time off during the workday. However, these short respites not only recharge productivity but also nurture overall well-being. Employers who actively promote and support breaks send a powerful message: they value their employees' mental and physical health. Encouraging brief moments of relaxation, whether it's a walk, meditation, or simply stepping away from the desk, allows individuals to destress, reenergize, and return to work with renewed focus.
Equipping employees with necessary resources
Equipping employees with the essential resources and tools is the cornerstone of fostering success in the workplace. These resources encompass technology, training, and support systems that empower individuals to perform at their best. By investing in these vital resources, employers not only boost productivity but also enhance job engagement and retention. Programs such as STAR which promotes schedule control helps in promoting WLB. An intervention called the Workplace Triple P for parents has shown lower stress levels in working parents.
In a world where work and life increasingly intersect, achieving balance is paramount. This blog has explored strategies, from flexible schedules to wellness programs, all contributing to the elusive equilibrium. Companies often do not prioritize WLB as they focus on immediate productivity. Employees who feel unsupported in their wellness are less engaged, less productive, and can drive up recruitment and training costs, making it essential for businesses to invest in their workforce's holistic health and work-life balance for long-term success. By prioritizing employee well-being, fostering clear communication, and promoting breaks, organizations can forge a path towards a harmonious work-life balance, benefiting both individuals and the workplace.
Anirudh Tagat and Valedeen Dsouza
