Here on The Cubicle Chick, I often discuss topics that relate to Work/Life and how to get the best out of both worlds. Most of us want to thrive in both our personal and our professional lives, and it is a constant struggle to make sure we are present in both of those areas. In the past few years, there has been a hearty discussion about Work Life Balance, Work Life Management, workplace issues and workplace flexibility. Our lifestyles are changing, but the workplace continues to be a pretty stagnant in many areas. Women are still making less than men on average, and there is still no mandated paid maternity/paternity leave for employees. We still lag far behind other countries who have better practices in place that reflect our changing family lifestyles.
October is National Work and Family Month, a month that is dedicated to the success of an employee’s professional and personal life. Established in 2003, National Work and Family Month was created by WorldatWork’s Alliance for Work Life Progress. When employers become interested in the well-being of their employees both on and off the clock, then it creates a platform for employees to perform their best.
I was often on the other side of this when I worked in Human Resources. My job was to recruit and promote top talent while encouraging the rules and policies of my employer in a positive manner. But oftentimes, the company’s bottom line was the main focus, and not the well-being of its employees. We weren’t flexible enough, understanding enough, nor did we do our best to make sure our employees had the tools they needed when they were off the clock. Personal lives and families were a third tier topic.
As an employee, this can be very frustrating, especially when working for a large employer. Which is why National Work and Family Month is important. It allows more discussion in the workplace regarding the needs of its employees on a personal as well as professional level. We all know that when you are happy in your personal life and you feel fulfilled, that often transcends into your professional career, making you less stressed, more effective, and efficient at work.
I encourage all employees to make sure to continue to discuss your needs with your employer. You also need to find your balance, if you haven’t already. Finding your balance does not mean that everything has to be perfectly equal. It means that you are able to dedicate the necessary time you need to cultivate your personal as well as your professional needs and relationships.
Your balance is your secret sauce. And with it, you can do extraordinary things.
If you need tips and tools to help you, I highly recommend that you download my eBook, SHINE: 10 Tips for Effective Work Life Balance. It’s free and gives you very realistic tips to help you jumpstart your Work Life Management. In addition, you can visit the WorldatWork’s National Work & Family Month website to get information and articles related to Work/Life and like-subjects.
You may not be able to have it all, but you can have what it is that makes you happy and healthy both personally and professionally. Don’t let anyone make you feel guilty about that.
I am so glad you mentioned that you will not find a perfect balance between work and life. Work is just a part of your entire life and you only have one life to live. Throughout life your priorities will change and that’s okay. Don’t be afraid to voice your priorities in the workplace when necessary. Family is important and your commitment to them is not something you should hide. Most employers will be flexible because they want to retain their talented employees.