Work-Life Balance

The constant cycle of prioritization

by Erika Branchcomb, Florida League of Cities

The delicate balance of managing your career, family and other social and civic obligations is one of the biggest challenges of working adults. Also known as work-life balance, there has been a wealth of research on the topic, and most experts agree that it should be considered an ongoing cycle rather than a one-time goal.

THE UPSIDE AND THE DOWNSIDE

When it comes to work-life balance, even the way we practice and think about it is a balancing act in and of itself. Most of us have heard that a poor work-life balance can have detrimental effects such as fatigue, poor health and strained relationships with friends and family. Conversely, the benefits of striking a successful balance between our business and personal lives are also well-documented:

▸ Reduced stress

▸ Less likelihood of burnout

▸ Greater job satisfaction

▸ Increased productivity

▸ Lower turnover

▸ Better relationships with managers and coworkers.

But our mental health can suffer when we place too much emphasis on creating the “perfect” work-life balance. According to Stewart Friedman, Director of Wharton’s Work/Life Integration Project, “The phrase ‘work-life balance’ could be causing more harm than good. It suggests work and life are in opposition to each other and that it’s necessary to take from one to give to the other.” Instead, Friedman recommends workers reconsider how different parts of their lives affect one another.

One way to start examining how all the parts of your life fit together is by prioritizing what is most important to you. While having a successful career is a common goal, it may not be your top priority at this point in your life. Looking at your lifestyle and career options, a lower-paying job closer to excellent childcare may be more beneficial than a higher-paying job with a longer commute. Or the opportunity to telecommute may be more desirable than a job in a brick-and-mortar building. No one’s needs or priorities are the same, and yours will likely change throughout your career.

THE IMPORTANCE OF FLEXIBILITY

The recurring theme in all of the tips, trends and research is the importance of flexibility, not only for employers who strive to model best practices for employees but also for the workers who are seeking this balance.

A healthy work-life balance doesn’t necessarily mean an even split between your work and personal time. And it doesn’t have to look the same every day, week or month. Depending on the events and cycle of your life, this work-life balance could be a fluid one that ebbs and flows as time and demands allow. It usually takes a long period of thoughtful evaluation, prioritization, experimentation and adjustment to find what ultimately works best for you, your employer and your family. As situations change, a willingness to adapt and seek new strategies will significantly benefit those trying to manage the never-ending cycle of work-life balance.

Erika Branchcomb is the Senior Communications Specialist at the Florida League of Cities.