Work-life balance in today’s world remains a crucial aspect of maintaining overall well-being amidst the demands of modern life. It is not just about creating a harmonious equilibrium between professional responsibilities and personal pursuits, but also about prioritizing between the two aspects from time to time.
In true sense, this should be the age which should leave us with more peace and less stress, but we are experiencing just the opposite. For example, advancements in technology is helping in remote work and flexible scheduling. But those who use this facility feel that technology can also blur the boundaries between work and personal life. And hence, establishing clear boundaries between work and personal life is essential. This demands that we define specific work hours, disconnect from work-related communication outside those hours, and dedicate time solely to personal activities and relationships.
All said and done, this can sound like a sermon, the truth is organizations and employers play a significant role in fostering a culture and environment that supports work-life balance. Offering benefits such as flexible hours, parental leave, wellness programs, and opportunities for professional development contribute to employee satisfaction and the zeal to live enthusiastic life. This also demands a culture where open communication with colleagues and supervisors about workload, deadlines, and personal commitments is possible and this not only helps in managing expectations but also reduces stress. Seeking support from peers, mentors, or professional networks can also provide valuable insights and advice.
Numerous research studies have explored the issue of work-life balance from various perspectives, including its impact on individuals, organizations, and society as a whole. And these pertain to those who work in both organized and unorganized sectors.
A case study of women entrepreneurs in Pune, examines the work-life balance challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in India. It explores how women entrepreneurs manage their dual roles as business owners and caregivers, and the strategies they employ to achieve work-life balance. Similarly, a study of street vendors in Delhi, focuses on the gendered dynamics of work-life balance among street vendors in Delhi. It investigates how women street vendors manage their work and family responsibilities and the barriers they encounter in accessing support services and resources.
A study published in the Journal of Development Studies, explores the relationship between work-life balance among self-employed women in the informal sector in urban India. It examines the impact of work-life balance on women’s economic independence, decision-making autonomy, and overall well-being.
All of these studies highlight the role of coping mechanisms, the strategies individuals use to manage stress, adversity, and challenges in their lives. For individuals from the poorest sections of society who struggle for day-to-day living, coping mechanisms are often essential for survival. These may include sharing resources, such as food or clothing, pooling money for collective savings, or providing emotional support and solidarity during difficult times. Many communities have informal savings and credit groups where members contribute small amounts of money regularly, which can be accessed during emergencies or used for income-generating activities.
Individuals living in poverty often demonstrate remarkable resourcefulness and innovation in making the most of limited resources. This may involve finding alternative sources of income, repurposing or recycling materials, or developing creative solutions to everyday challenges. Faith and spirituality also play a significant role in coping with adversity for many individuals. Drawing on religious or spiritual beliefs and practices can provide comfort, hope, and a sense of meaning in the face of hardship.
Individuals in the organized sector and those with greater access to resources often employ coping mechanisms that differ from those used by individuals living in extreme poverty. They often prioritize tasks and manage their time effectively to balance work, personal life, and other commitments. This may involve setting clear goals, creating schedules, and delegating tasks to maximize productivity and achieve work-life balance. Resourceful individuals often engage in financial planning and investment strategies to secure their financial future and build wealth over time. They also access a range of support services, such as childcare facilities, eldercare assistance, and wellness programs which help alleviate caregiving responsibilities and enhance overall well-being. And rather than strictly balancing work and personal life, some individuals in the organized sector and resourceful people strive for work-life integration, where they blend work and personal responsibilities in a way that aligns with their values and goals. This may involve doing those things for livelihood which actually are their hobbies and passion.
Further to this, building ‘social capital’ also adds value. This refers to the networks, relationships, and connections individuals have within their communities and social circles. For example, mutual aid networks which can provide support and assistance to one another during times of need can extend childcare or eldercare assistance. Apart from this, joining informal savings and lending groups, provide access to financial resources and promote solidarity and trust within the community. Engaging with community-based organizations, non-profits, or grassroots initiatives focused on addressing local issues, promoting social justice, or providing essential services also help in strengthening social ties and foster a sense of belonging and empowerment. And lastly, participating in professional associations, industry groups, or networking events related to one’s field of work or interests can also provide opportunities for knowledge sharing, career advancement, mentorship, and collaboration with peers and colleagues.
By leveraging social capital through these various channels, individuals can access support, resources, and opportunities that enhance their resilience, well-being, and quality of life.
These coping mechanisms not only ensure the advantages to individuals but also allow them to navigate the complexities of modern life and achieve success in their personal and professional endeavours and eventually achieve work-life balance!