There have been quite a few surveys that show workers would rather be happy at work, get the flexibility they want, etc., than get a fatter paycheck.
In this greed-centric society can this really be true? Possibly. Or maybe people are just willing to settle because trying to get more money can be so difficult.
One survey by Salary.com found that sixty-two percent of small-business employees think they can get more money at a large company but they stay anyway. Some of the reasons they give for hanging on are better relationships with bosses and co-workers, and the all important work-life balance.
I suppose we’re all looking for a better life, a more balanced life, but with gas, and other consumer goods, climbing into the stratosphere good intentions may land you in the poor house.
May 10th, 2007 at 11:16 am
Better relationships with bosses and co-workers and work-life balance aren’t mutually exclusive, they’re one in the same.
When I think of work-life balance, I consider any number of values, beliefs, and goals. Here are the main ones that I include in my definition and in the life and lifestyle I’m trying to create:
Family — a chance to show love, take on responsibility, share responsibility, and make a positive contribution to society.
Solitude — quiet time for me to recharge my batteries, calm myself, rest up, and make plans.
Friends — the chance to share, to care, and to bare my soul and bond with people I like and respect.
Career — the opportunity to earn a living, express who I am, and develop my full potential.
Developmental — allow me to improve my emotional and intellectual development.
Spirituality — the chance to tap into power that is much greater than my own and that provides a source of inspiration and strength.
Financial — allow me to plan for and buy a new car, a new boat, a great new home, a fun family vacation, retirement income, or anything else I want … or to achieve financial freedom so that I needn’t work for others.
Leisure — to make sure I don’t burn out.
Health - for stress, burnout, longevity, and sensible living.
Balance is sometimes about separating work from one’s personal life. It can also be about integrating or managing one’s work and personal life. Other times it’s about creating meaning in your work and private life.
Trying to achieve balance can at times be about compromise, other times exercising patience, and on other occasions about sticking hard to what one believes in.
At all times, however, it’s different and personal to each and every one of us. Only you have the right and opportunity to define and create the life and lifestyle that you desire.
May 10th, 2007 at 1:05 pm
That was beautifully said!