Leavism: The Hidden Workplace Challenge and How to Address It

What is Leavism?

Leavism occurs when workers take time off work, but instead of taking a break, they use the opportunity to catch up on pending tasks. This approach is often advantageous to employees, as completing work during non-business hours reduces interruptions from colleagues, phone calls, or emails.

Leavism is on the rise as remote working becomes increasingly prevalent thanks to modern technology.

While it may seem harmless to visit the office at the weekend or check emails while on holiday, it can become a bigger problem, with employees all too often feeling compelled or obliged to work beyond their contractual hours.

The Consequences of Leavism for Employees:

1. Burnout and Stress: Constantly working during non-paid hours or annual leave can lead to burnout and chronic stress. Employees may find it challenging to switch off from work, resulting in physical and mental health issues.
2. Reduced Work-Life Balance: Leavism disrupts the work-life balance, making it difficult for employees to enjoy quality time with family and friends. This imbalance can lead to feelings of isolation and strained relationships.
3. Negative Impact on Health: The stress associated with Leavism can negatively impact an individual's health, potentially leading to conditions like high blood pressure, anxiety, and depression.
4. Decreased Job Satisfaction: Employees who experience Leavism may become dissatisfied with their jobs due to the constant pressure and lack of downtime. This can ultimately lead to reduced productivity and motivation.
5. Loss of Creativity and Innovation: Continuous work without proper breaks can stifle creativity and innovation. Employees need time away from work to recharge and come up with fresh ideas.
6. Impact on Career Progression: In some cases, employees who consistently engage in Leavism may inadvertently hinder their career progression. Employers may perceive them as unable to manage their workload effectively.
7. Increased Absenteeism: Paradoxically, Leavism can lead to more significant absenteeism in the long run as employees may experience physical and mental health issues that require time off work.
8. Decreased Job Security: Depending on the industry and the employer's policies, employees who consistently work during their leave may be at risk of job insecurity if they become indispensable for certain tasks.
9. Lower Overall Well-Being: Leavism can negatively affect an individual's overall well-being, impacting not only their professional life but also their personal happiness and fulfillment.
10. Impact on Team Dynamics: When one team member engages in Leavism, it can affect the entire team's dynamics. Others may feel pressured to do the same, leading to a collective breakdown of work-life balance.

It's crucial for both employees and employers to recognize the detrimental effects of Leavism and work together to establish a healthy work culture that values time off, stress management, and overall well-being.

How can you effectively manage the current situation and implement measures to avoid its recurrence in the future?

Here are some tips for employees on how to combat Leavism and maintain a healthy work-life balance:

1. Plan Your Leave in Advance:Try to plan your vacations and time off well in advance. The earlier you request it, the more likely it will be approved, and you can mentally prepare for it.
2. Set Clear Boundaries:Establish clear boundaries between work and personal time. When you're on vacation or outside of working hours, resist the urge to check work emails or messages.
3. Use Out-of-Office Notifications:Set up out-of-office email notifications when you're on leave. Make it clear when you'll be back and whom to contact in your absence.
4. Delegate Responsibilities:Trust your colleagues to handle your work when you're on vacation. Delegate tasks and responsibilities to ensure a smooth workflow in your absence.
5. Communicate Effectively:Inform your team members about your upcoming leave and discuss how work will be managed during your absence. Good communication is key.
6. Take Care of Your Well-Being:Recognize the importance of rest and self-care. Taking time off is not only your right but essential for maintaining your physical and mental health.
7. Resist the Urge to Overwork:Avoid the temptation to work during your time off or outside regular hours unless it's an absolute emergency.
8. Advocate for Your Rights:If you notice a culture of Leavism in your workplace, consider discussing it with your HR department or manager. Voice your concerns about work-life balance.
9. Prioritize Self-Care:Make self-care a priority in your life. Engage in activities that help you relax and recharge outside of work.
10. Seek Support from Management:If you're feeling overwhelmed or stressed due to Leavism or excessive workload, don't hesitate to speak with your manager or HR about finding solutions.

Remember that taking your allotted leave and maintaining a healthy work-life balance is not only beneficial for your well-being but can also lead to increased productivity and job satisfaction in the long run.

What to read about leavism?

• “Leaveism at work” Ian Hesketh, Cary L. Cooper.
• “Health and Well-being at Work” . CIPD and Simply Health.
• “Leaveism and illness-related behaviour” . Gerich, J.
• “Managing Health and Wellbeing in the Public Sector” Hesketh,I; Cooper,C.
• “Developing the concept of leaveism” James Richards.