Why work life balance is important

The concept of ‘work-life balance’ is a familiar one. It’s seen as a facilitator for balanced lifestyles, influencing productivity, engagement, output, and retention among colleagues. While work-life balance has certainly set us on the right path, I propose that the traditional interpretation of this concept is somewhat limited, especially as hybrid and flexible working models have evolved.

For many, the boundaries between work and life have become indistinct. Our evolving attitudes towards work, coupled with technological advancements, have resulted in a seamless blending of work and life. Many of us now prefer a lifestyle where work is tailored to our individual preferences and needs. However, the work-life balance concept has often been framed around ‘traditional’ family structures, which may not be inclusive of those from diverse backgrounds or with non-standard circumstances.

As businesses, we have policies in place for common life events such as maternity leave, paternity leave, and bereavement. But what about those facing fertility challenges? Or those grappling with the complexities of first-time parenthood? What about those caring for elderly relatives? What provisions do we have for them?

We also need to consider whether our policies are truly gender-neutral, or if the ‘work-life’ concept has inadvertently favored historical societal norms. For instance, Dr. Jasmine Kelland, a Human Resource Management Lecturer at the University of Plymouth, has coined the term ‘fatherhood forfeit’. Her research suggests that fathers seeking roles that accommodate caregiving, such as part-time positions, often face discrimination and suspicion in their quest for work-life balance.

So, what’s the solution? I believe we need to rethink work-life balance and instead promote the idea of work-life integration or work-life harmony. This approach acknowledges that everyone is unique and aims to enable individuals to craft a fulfilling life where work is an integral, harmonious part of their existence, tailored to their personal circumstances.