3 truths about work-life balance

JULIE CHASE | MARCH 26, 2019

One of the first things I ask my clients to do is list the criteria that’s most important for their ideal role and company. A theme that commonly pops up is work-life balance. As we dig deeper, though, the reasons vary. Some people want to spend more time with their children, others want to travel more and some have had an extremely negative experience—like working 70 hours a week. Yep, that’s right 70 HOURS and not just for a launch, but as an average amount they work per week.

We work with high performers—they’ve had successful careers filled with promotions and awards and accolades. So when they ask for work-life balance, it’s not that they just want to sit back and rest on their laurels.

 

Here are 3 truths about work-life balance:

1. Good companies have good cultures

They are thoughtful about their vision, mission and core values. They focus on results and not the number of hours you spend in the office. They value collaboration, but it doesn’t always have to be face-to-face. And thanks to the Millennial generation, more and more companies are embracing flexible workstyle. 

2. When you love your work, it doesn’t feel like work

If you have a job that you truly love, see the impact you’re making and work with great people—you feel fulfilled. The challenges are fun and rewarding. When you’re excited by the work you’re doing—and recognized for it—work-life balance becomes a secondary issue. This doesn’t mean it leads to insane hours, but it does make work less taxing.

3. It’s not you, it’s me

I am a recovering workaholic. So one of my first questions is how much of your past working hours was imposed by you or your manager/company. In most cases, it’s the former. But the great news is when you start a new job, you get to reset your practice and expectations. One of the most strategic and effective leaders I worked with had six children. She focused on the most important activities that made the biggest impact and dropped everything else.

When you choose amazing companies, love your job, prioritize the most important activities and set reasonable expectations—you will have work-life balance. You don’t need to ask for it because you’ll create it.

If you are ready for a career change and would like to learn how to gain quick and impactful traction in your job search to get the interviews and offers you want—schedule time to talk with us.

Watch our video, answer a short survey and then select a meeting time. We’d love to help you find a job that you love every day!

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