WORK-LIFE BALANCE - does it matter?
In a word, yes. An increasing amount of research evidence confirms the link between good work-life balance and personal health and wellbeing. It's been clearly demonstrated that negative consequences of poor work-life balance impact on workplace performance and the accompanying negative emotions are contagious among co-workers.
It's currently fashionable to talk about sustainability; but without work-life balance we cannot sustain ourselves as human beings - nor can we have sustainable organisations.
Is your organisation a world leader in supporting work-life balance?
It's not easy to define good work-life balance. It's personal and likely to change in response to life events. Many organisations respond to this conundrum by offering limited flexible working opportunities - often at the expense of career progression. In the 21st Century this is far from adequate.
Employers truly committed to supporting work-life balance are beginning the journey beyond policies and procedures. Their intention is to build a culture that captures hearts and minds. Is yours one of these organisations? If so, you may benefit from hiring an experienced consultant to guide you on the journey.
When it comes to retaining key talent through life's transitions, supportive employers are increasingly recognising the value of coaching. Faced with a significant life change (such as the birth of a child), people generally welcome the breathing space to redefine working patterns. At times, team coaching can be a powerful alternative way of resolving the work-life balance issues of a group of co-workers.
Bringing Balanace to the Boardroom
Taking steps to improve work-life balance at senior and board levels is likely to bring considerable benefits, particularly where women are concerned. A culture that fully supports work-life balance in the boardroom will not only foster better leadership, it will also eliminate one of the biggest remaining barriers to women's progress - the unspoken insistence they choose between career and family life.
Balanced Working is Sustainable Working
Are you ready to redesign work for the 21st Century?
Do you have a 21st Century workplace vision for your organisation? Let me share my ideas about balanced working with you. Please browse my website; then get in touch if you think we can work together.
Anna
Photo of Anna taken by Anne Williamson
Page last updated April 2012
