All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. The proverb applies to us in our grown up lives as well. This essentially is at the core of the concept of work-life balance that has gained a lot of prominence in recent times. To lead a fulfilling life, it is very important that there is harmony between the personal and professional lives of individuals.
Why do we need work-life balance?
In these times of ever present technology, it is getting more and more difficult for a person to totally switch off from his work or profession even once he is out of office. Through emails, video conferences. Chats, one is always connected to the workplace. It becomes very difficult to cut off and focus on other aspects of life.
Work –life balance helps one to achieve a better harmony between professional, spiritual, personal, health-related and relationships- related areas of one’s life. If one pays attention to just earning money, his career and relationships invariably suffer. Conversely, due to not being satisfied on the personal front, his ability to put in his best at work too suffers. What fun is it to come back to an empty house after a promotion at job? What sense of fulfilment would one achieve if he is at the top position at his company, but cannot enjoy a morning walk with colleagues due to a stiff back?
Work –life balance helps one to achieve a better harmony between professional, spiritual, personal, health-related and relationships- related areas of one’s life. If one pays attention to just earning money, his career and relationships invariably suffer. Conversely, due to not being satisfied on the personal front, his ability to put in his best at work too suffers. What fun is it to come back to an empty house after a promotion at job? What sense of fulfilment would one achieve if he is at the top position at his company, but cannot enjoy a morning walk with colleagues due to a stiff back?
Not only at work, but in every area of one’s life, we all want Tobe perfectionists. Our homes, partners, children, lifestyle should all be at par with the ideals set by society. In the pursuit of perfection, we tend to lose ourselves and become so stressed that the joy goes out of everyday living.
How the employer can help?
It is fast becoming norm for employers to take care of the overall wellbeing of their workers. Employees, especially women, with highly stressful jobs are more likely to quit and take leaves. A 2007 research at Kenexa shows employees are more satisfied with and have a greater sense of loyalty towards their workplace when their company actively helps them to balance their jobs with their lives.
The work-life balance training program at Healthy Mind Works is a one of a kind program that imparts psychologically approved methods to employees to help them prioritize various aspects of their lives. A group of 10 participants is counselled through a session of 2.5 hours duration under the training.
Benefits of work-life balance program
A work life balance program would help one to-
1. Set clear priorities in life regarding work, health and family goals.
2. Switch off from work mode and pay attention to the other aspects of life after work hours.
3. Enjoy his relationships with spouse, children, extended family and friends in a better manner.
4. Look after his health, take regular check-ups, and include exercise regimen and a healthy eating lifestyle in his day.
5. Make his life more fulfilling, thus enabling him to perform better at his job, and live a satisfied life.
