171 — If only I had the time: achieving work-life balance
Nov 12, 2019
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Join the hosts in a discussion with a managing partner at Protos Learning and a travel website co-author. Topics include the significance of vacations for professional growth, wasted vacation time's impact on organizations, managing work communications on vacation, trends in big data and learning, the age when fun decreases, and new words in the Oxford English Dictionary.
Taking time off can improve performance at work by preventing burnout and enhancing soft skills like communication and problem-solving.
A culture that shames or discourages taking vacation time contributes to unused benefits and negative work-life balance, organizations should value and support vacation as a benefit.
Deep dives
Importance of Taking Vacation Time
Many people are hesitant to take vacation time due to fears of falling behind at work or being seen as uncommitted to their job. However, it is crucial for both mental health and professional success to take time off and recharge. Studies have shown that vacation time can prevent burnout and contribute to employee retention. It can also enhance soft skills like communication and problem-solving, providing valuable experiences that can be applied to the workplace. Organizations should foster a culture that encourages and supports employees in taking their entitled vacation time, promoting transparency, honesty, and open conversations about vacation plans.
The Impact of Not Taking Vacation
A staggering number of vacation days go unused, with about 170 million days wasted annually in the United States alone. This amounts to $50 billion in unused benefits. The main reasons behind this trend are a culture that shames or discourages taking time off and a fear of returning to an overwhelming workload. Many employees worry about appearing less committed or struggle to justify their absence. This fear of vacation can contribute to stress, limited personal growth, and a negative work-life balance. It is essential for organizations to address these issues and create an environment where vacation is valued and seen as a benefit.
Balancing Work and Vacation Connection
Taking vacation time should not be seen as separate from work, but rather as an integral part of personal and professional development. By integrating vacation experiences into the workplace, employees can bring back valuable skills and perspectives. Communication, problem-solving, and resilience gained during vacations can be applied in work scenarios, making employees better equipped and more impactful. Approaching vacation as an opportunity for personal growth and skill development fosters a sense of work-life integration rather than separation. Both employees and organizations benefit from a holistic approach to time off.
Finding the Right Balance in Vacation Usage
The way individuals approach vacation should align with their own needs and comfort levels. While some may choose to completely disconnect during time off, others may prefer to stay engaged online or check in occasionally. There should be no shame in either approach, as long as it helps individuals get the most out of their vacation and supports their well-being. Planning and discipline play key roles in successfully integrating vacation into work life. Organizations can support work-life balance by promoting openness about vacation plans, encouraging pre-planning, and facilitating reintegration after time off.
How do we achieve work-life balance? Is there even such a thing? And should we treat 'work' and 'life' as two separate entities or are they more integrated than we would like to believe?
This week return guest Stephanie Hubka, world traveller and managing partner at Protos Learning, joins Nicola Boyle and James McLuckie to discuss. We talk about:
How taking time off can improve our performance at work
How we can integrate 'work' and 'life' effectively
How organisations can foster a work-life balance culture