Myth Behind "Work-Life Balance"
"Work-Life Balance" Could Be a Mistake
Read on Substack
Read time - Less than 5 minutes
What is work-life balance to most people?
It’s usually viewing work & life as a "clear line" and fully separated.
It's a reductionist view that ultimately leads to a life focused on just surviving, not thriving.
In today’s newsletter, I will cover why only striving for work-life balance could be a mistake and 4 ways to rethink work & life.
In today's interconnected world, work often bleeds into our personal lives.
Emails, deadlines, and even the constant availability of technology make it difficult to switch off from work completely.
Work-life balance isn't just about compartmentalising your life, it's about finding meaning and fulfilment in both your work and personal life.
Here are 4 ways to rethink work & life:
1) Striving for Work-Life Integration
Focus on finding joy and purpose in your work.
This doesn't mean working endless hours; it's about finding ways to make your work meaningful and enjoyable.
Example: A teacher might not "love" paperwork, but they can find fulfilment in seeing their students succeed.
2) Setting Boundaries
Recognise that there are loopholes in the age of technology.
Employers can often disturb you past working hours so it is healthy to set boundaries.
Example: Set specific times for checking emails after work hours, or utilise "do not disturb" modes on your phone during designated leisure time.
3) Prioritising Mental Well-being
A healthy work-life integration is crucial for mental well-being.
Find ways to integrate activities you enjoy into your workday, and don't hesitate to take breaks or pursue other interests.
Example: Taking a walk during your lunch break or listening to music while working on a mundane task.
4) Recognising We Will Work Most of Our Lives
Work occupies a significant portion of your life, so it's worth investing effort into making it fulfilling.
Instead of seeing work as a necessary evil, seek ways to integrate your values and passions into your career.
Example: If you enjoy helping others, look for opportunities where helping is a huge portion of the job scope
Achieving a Meaningful Work-Life Integration
The key to a truly fulfilling work-life integration isn't about separating work and leisure but rather about finding a harmonious integration between the two.
This involves:
Purposeful work: Seek out work that aligns with your values and interests.
Meaningful leisure: Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation.
Healthy boundaries: Establish some boundaries to avoid burnout
Prioritising self-care: Invest in your mental and physical well-being.
By focusing on these elements, you can create a life where work isn't just a means to an end, but a source of fulfilment and a path to a fulfilling life.
Ready to Land Your Dream Job?
Unlock your career potential with The Job Hunting Toolbox.
This comprehensive guide provides over 60 video lectures and live demonstrations to help you:
Discover your passions: Uncover hidden talents and unleash your potential.
Craft compelling cover letters: Learn to showcase your unique value.
Master resume writing: Choose from unique templates to highlight your skills.
Optimise your LinkedIn profile: Attract recruiters and employers.
Build a stunning portfolio: Stand out from the competition.
Ace interviews with confidence: Land your dream job.
Join over 10 successful clients who have transformed their careers.
See you next week.
Whenever you're ready, there are 3 ways to kickstart your adult life:
1. The Modern Thinking Toolbox (Only $1): Join 30+ students in mastering psychological skills and revive your authenticity. This concise curriculum will teach you to resist conformity and live life true to yourself.
2. The Job Hunting Toolbox: Build your dream career by using unconventional methods. Over 10+ unique case studies, interview strategies and effective résumé templates to get your dream job without dreading Mondays.
3. The Financial Toolbox: Establish your personal financial economy. Grow your savings without sacrificing what you love, set up investment accounts in less than 3 days and manage your finances automatically & hassle-free.