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by Nomadic Chris, 19 October 2009
All work and no play makes millions of office workers around the world stressed out, exhausted, and most likely, dull as dish rags!
Do you spend too much time on homework and school related activities?
If you are working, do you feel like a slave chained to your work desk for up to 12 hours a day?
Do you see your boss more than your own family!
GET READY! On October 23rd, the 2nd Work Life Balance Day organized by Community Business (CB) Hong Kong will seek to address the issue once again! CB will be organizing a host of events along with other organizations to raise public awareness. Their recent research has shown, in Hong Kong:
That despite the economic downturn; employees still place a high priority on work life balance.
During the downturn, 3 out of 10 workers would consider leaving their employer for better work life balance.
Work life balance is defined by the Work Foundation as “people having a measure of control over when, where and how they work.” Work life balance is core to an individual’s life and is applicable to students. A good work life balance is achieved when a person can enjoy a fulfilled life outside the rigors of the office or study.
THE CAUSES OF POOR WLB :
International Economy: With cheap accessible communications and fights, distances and time differences means somewhere in the wide world, the sun is always rising and you're only a conference call away from the dreaded 'morning meeting ritual'.
Technology: People are wired 24/7, and bosses know this. Are you a slave to your Blackberry?
Shifting Family Roles: Couples have different careers and hours making it hard to see each other / children.
THE DRAWBACKS OF POOR WLB:
Tiredness: This can lead to lower productivity.
Family and friends: Missing out on special events like spouse or children's birthdays.
More and more Responsibility: Your boss may see you around the office and heap more work on you.
HOW TO ACHIEVE BETTER WLB:
Figure out what really matters to you in Life: Prioritize your life! What really matters to you? Family, sports, etc?
Learn to say no: You should not feel guilty about rejecting further requests both in life and at work.
Set aside time for yourself: Set aside a weekday evening or two for yourself. Try new hobbies or relax via sports / the gym.
Leave work at the office: Don't bring files and folders home with you. Leave work at work.
Everyone has the right to enjoy life outside of work! And, as a happy workforce is a more productive one, company's need to work with employees to help them find WORK - LIFE BALANCE!
In the grand scheme of things, what is more important? Your job title or quality time with friends and family!?
Work hard but work smart, and lead a quality life!
COMMENT BELOW: IF you know someone, in your family, or not, who might benefit from practicing WORK LIFE BALANCE, forward this onto them; as a hint, a reminder, or even just to tell them they are already walking the talk! We all like a little attention and recognition once in a while! *Smile
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