The concept of workers striving to achieve a work-life balance has had a considerable amount of buzz in recent years.
The phrase usually brings to mind the parent who wants to put in a full day’s work but still make it home in time for their son or daughter’s game or concert, ensuring the happiness of their child and spouse.
But it’s more than just leaving work on time to be present for family obligations. It’s a sense that employers understand that their workers’ home lives are just as important, and their time with family and friends is just as important as the work they put in while on the clock.
More research suggests that workers who feel their employer understands and recognizes the importance of things that happen in non-work hours will feel more valued and might even be more productive on the job.
Here’s how a work-life balance can make you a better employee:
Less risk of burnout
If a worker is always worried about deadlines and productivity goals, he or she will be distracted and stressed, which can lead to silly, preventable mistakes. A worker who’s trying to rush through tasks to get out on time to make it home will also make mistakes. Being overly stressed or feeling too much pressure can also lead to health problems, like hypertension and insomnia, which can lead to more sick days. Being able to take time off when needed, without fear of repercussions, reduces this stress.
Better productivity at work
When a worker knows they won’t have to stay late, or come in early unexpectedly, when they have an urgent family matter to attend to, they know they can focus on the task at hand while they’re on the clock.
Lower absenteeism
It’s one of those open secrets that employees will call in sick — or “sick” — if they feel they can’t otherwise get time off to handle priorities or emergencies at home. They’re also more likely to want to come to work if they know they can get time off when they really need it.
Less complaining
If a worker feels like their employer understands their non-work priorities, and is willing to work with them, that employee is more likely to think positively about their boss and is less likely to complain. Happy workers are also less likely to write negative reviews on sites like LinkedIn, Glassdoor, or Indeed. After all, if you feel like your boss is in your corner, why would you want to take advantage of a situation or lie?
More loyalty to their job
Again, this comes down to respect. A worker who feels like their boss understands and prioritizes non-work-related obligations will be more willing to stay in that job, even if other offers come along. Higher worker retention is good for the company, but staying in one job is great for the employee too — most companies offer added perks, like more vacation time, to workers who stick around.
There are clear benefits to you and your employer to have a work-life balance. A happy worker will give more to their employer, who can rest assured that the employees are there for the right reasons and not trying to sneak out early to attend to family matters.
Find a new position with Debbie’s Staffing
If you don’t feel like your current employer values your home time, contact Debbie’s Staffing today, and we’ll help you find a new position where your efforts to be present in your non-work life will be valued, appreciated and respected. We work with some great companies who are ready to bring on people just like you!