By: D.M.K.G. Niroshini (MBA (WUSL), M.Sc. (Food science & Tech, PGIA Sri Lanka), B.Sc.Sp.(Hons)(University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka)
Work life balance should be maintained for an efficient and effective life.
Work life balancing is simply defined as the balance between an individual’s work and personal life. Work life balancing is exclusive as it changes periodically. Work place policies especially the balance between family/life and work create an organizational norm in which employees must fall into. This type of organizational behavior contributes in some ways to the structuring of organizational reality and hence organizational power.
By working in an organization, employees identify organization, as part of a collective group. Organizational values, norms and interests become incorporated in the self concept as employees increase their identification with the organization. Most employees identify not only the organization, but also other factors of their life (family, children, religion etc). Sometimes these identities align and sometimes they do not.
Majority of employees recognize the organization as well as their lives (family, religion etc). Sometimes these two identities are aligned and sometimes they do not. When these identities are in conflict the sense of a healthy work life balance may be affected.
Work domain factors and family domain factors affect the state of balance at a given moment of time. Work domain factors are working hours, leave, vacations, flexibility, unhealthy work patterns, travel time to work and residence etc. Family domain factors are financial stress, responsibility for the dependent and quality of the support by immediate family, extended family and most importantly one’s life partner. Further, research findings revealed that the work life balancing depends on one’s sex as social expectations (hence the different roles they need to play) are different to males and females. Personality is another variable that determines how we approach and achieve the balance. Work life balancing is also depends on religion, overall work culture, work relationships, support from organization through policies that protect the well- being of the employees, resources, supportive bosses and teams.
Work life conflict is a very common phenomenon within the organizations. Organizations play a major role in how their employees deal with work life balance. Some organizations have taken proactive measures in providing programmes and initiatives to help their employees to cope with work life balance.
Generally there are certain social perceptions and stereotypes regarding the work life balancing. Even though, research findings have not proved above perceptions, it is very difficult to uproot such misconceptions. For an example, working mothers often have to challenge perceptions and stereotypes that evolve as a working woman becomes a working mother, working mothers are perceived as less competent and less worthy of training than childless women etc. Also, young people do not believe work life balance is possible and think it is dangerous to build a dependent on another when relationships are unpredictable. They are looking for partners to share the house work and family work together.
Despite the desire to increase productivity or enhance performance, many organizations are realizing that increasing workload and working hours are caused for counter-productivity and potential to encourage absenteeism, ill health, accidents, poor quality work etc.
Few practical steps that can be taken to reduce the stress and win the balance in our lives are as follows;
AT WORK
Set manageable goals each day: Being able to meet priorities helps us feel a sense of accomplishment and control. The latest research shows that the more control we have over our work; the less stress we get. So be realistic about workloads and deadlines. Make a “to do” list, and take care of important tasks first and eliminate unessential ones.
Be efficient with your time at work: When you face a big project at work or home, start by dividing it into smaller tasks. Complete the first one before moving on to the next. Give yourself small rewards upon each completion, whether it’s a five minute break or a walk to the coffee shop. If you feel overwhelmed by routines that seem unnecessary, discuss with your boss. The less time you spend doing busy work or procrastinating, the more time you can spend productively, or with friends or family.
Ask for flexibility: Flex time and telecommuting are quickly becoming established as necessities in today’s business world, and many companies are drafting work/life policies. If you ask, they might allow you to work flexible hours or from home a day per week. Research shows that employees who work for flexible schedules are more productive and loyal to their employers.
Take breaks: Taking a break at work isn’t only acceptable, it’s often encouraged by many employers. Small breaks at work or on any project will help clear your head, and improve your ability to deal with stress and make good decisions when you jump back into the grind.
Tune in: Listen to your favorite music at work to foster concentration, reduce stress and anxiety, and stimulate creativity. Studies dating back more than 30 years show the benefits of music in everyday life, including lowered blood pressure. Be sure to wear headphones on the job, and then pump up the volume and your productivity.
Communicate effectively: Be honest with colleagues or your boss when you feel you’re in a bind. Do not complain but try to suggest practical alternatives. Looking at a situation from someone else’s viewpoint can also reduce your stress. In a tense situation, either rethink your strategy or stand your ground, calmly and rationally. Make allowances for other opinions, and compromise. Retreat before you lose control, and allow time for all involved to cool off. You’ll be better equipped to handle the problem constructively later.
Give yourself a break: No one’s perfect! Allow yourself to be human and just do the best you can.
AT HOME
Divide and conquer: Make sure responsibilities at home are evenly distributed and clearly outlined you’ll avoid confusion and problems later.
Don't over commit: Do you feel stressed when you just glance at your calendar? If you’re over-scheduled with activities, learn to say,’’ no.” Shed the superman/superwoman urge!
Get support: Chatting with friends and family can be important to your success at home or at work and can even improve your health. People with stronger support systems have more aggressive immune responses to illnesses than those who lack such support.
Take advantage of your company’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Many organizations offer resources through an EAP, which can save you precious time by providing guidance on issues like where to find a daycare center and care-taking for an elderly parent, as well as referrals to mental health and other services.
Stay active: Aside from its well-known physical benefits, regular exercise reduces stress, depression and anxiety, and enables people to better cope with adversity, according to researchers. It’ll also boost your immune system and keep you out of the doctor’s office. Make time in your schedule for the gym or to take a walk during lunch and have some fun!
Treat your body right: Being in good shape physically increases your tolerance to stress and reduces sick days. Eat right, exercise and get adequate rest. Don’t rely on drugs, alcohol or cigarettes to cope with stress; they’ll only lead to more problems.
Get help if you need: Don’t let stress stand in the way of your health and happiness. If you are persistently overwhelmed, it may be time to seek help from a mental health professional. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness taking care of yourself is a sign of strength.
Some advantages of work life balancing are reduced absenteeism, increased productivity, retaining skilled staff and reduced training costs, reduction in staff turnover, attracting new employees, being recognized as an employer of choice and increased morale and job satisfaction.