Sustainable Work-Life Balance

Can excessive work lead to losing of life’s true essence? Some spouses express concerns that their partners are overwhelmed with work responsibilities, leaving them physically, mentally, and emotionally drained, with little time for family. Stress and late nights become the norm, resulting in poor communication for family planning. Are employees overworked? While this issue may not be widespread in our society, it remains significant in many other places. A few months ago, the Australian government introduced the ‘Right to Disconnect’ for millions of employees. This law allows Australian workers to ignore work-related calls or messages when they are off duty. However, the problem of overwork isn't solely the fault of one employer; pressure cascades down from higher-ups. Employers themselves often face pressure from their bosses, creating a cycle of stress that affects everyone involved.

Most people require 7-8 hours of sleep each night for optimal health. However, a rare gene mutation called DEC2 affects only 0.5% of the global population, allowing those with it to function well on less sleep. A 2009 study found that individuals with this mutation maintained their health even with just 6.25 hours of sleep. This highlights the importance of proper rest, which is often sacrificed in a high-pressure work environment. Some employees work diligently to meet workplace demands, but the resulting long hours and workload take a toll on their physical, emotional, and mental health. Many experiences anxiety, insomnia, and stress yet persist, believing hard work is the key to success. Employees often find themselves working late into the night or during weekends, leaving little opportunity to recharge or to socialize with friends and families. When employees express concerns, they often encounter dismissal.

Instead of overburdening employees, why not hire additional staff? This approach could reduce unemployment and boost productivity. Yes! Working fewer hours can actually enhance efficiency. An organisation called Expert Market assessed the workforce in 42 countries, ranking Luxembourg at the top. In Luxembourg, employees receive five weeks of paid leave annually and work not more than 40 hours a week. Other top-ranking countries, such as Ireland, Norway, Denmark, and the Netherlands, follow similar labour laws. It’s no coincidence that these nations frequently rank high in 'Quality of Life' and 'Happiness Index.' Conversely, countries like Mexico, where unemployment poses a significant threat and labour laws are lax, often see employees working 48-hour weekly. This trend is mirrored in Colombia, Chile, and Greece, where high working hours lead to burnout and reduced productivity. This principle applies not only on a national level but also personally. To enhance personal productivity and efficiency, one must first improve quality of life and prioritise happiness. Basic steps include getting 7-8 hours of sleep, eating healthily, and exercising, while less obvious strategies may involve spending time with family, nurturing friendships, and practicing meditation.