Work-Life Balance: The Best Countries to Live and Work in 2024

The hustle and bustle of modern life has made it increasingly challenging for working individuals to maintain a balance between work and personal life. Without this balance, a person not only suffers in terms of productivity but also in health and well-being.

Let’s explore which countries are leading the way in work-life balance globally and examine the situation in India.

The Global Work-Life Balance Landscape

According to a study conducted by Remote.com titled the ‘Global Life-Work Balance Index 2024’, New Zealand ranks as the top country offering the best work-life balance in the world. The study revealed that New Zealand secured the first position with an index score of 80.76 out of 100, followed by Ireland with 77.89, Belgium and Denmark both scoring 73.45. Other top-ranking countries include Canada, Germany, and Finland, all of which offer excellent facilities that promote a healthy balance between work and life.

What Do the Numbers Say?

According to the Global Life-Work Balance Index 2024, New Zealand tops the ranking for several key reasons. The country boasts a strong economy, offers 32 annual leave days, provides up to 80% salary during sickness, and has a government-funded universal healthcare system. These benefits make New Zealand a standout country where employees can achieve a remarkable balance between work and personal life.

Factors Contributing to Better Work-Life Balance

According to The Times of India, the following are some of the key reasons why these countries excel in work-life balance:

Shorter Working Hours: The top countries in the Global Life-Work Balance Index 2024 have limited working hours, allowing employees ample time for personal and family life.

Higher Wages: Better wages not only provide financial stability but also enable individuals to spend quality time with loved ones.

Healthcare and Leave Benefits: The leading countries in the work-life balance index provide various healthcare benefits and special leave options throughout the year, contributing significantly to better work-life balance.

Work-Life Balance in India

India ranks 48th in the Global Life-Work Balance Index 2024, with an index score of 38.83 out of 100. Indian employees get 35 days of annual leave, but the minimum wage is only $0.27 per hour, significantly lower compared to New Zealand’s $16.1 per hour. Additionally, India’s happiness index score is just 4.05 out of 10.

In contrast, India’s score and ranking are far lower compared to the top-ranked countries, where work-life balance and happiness are much better. This highlights the significant potential for improving work-life balance in India.

Wrapping Up

This study demonstrates that achieving better work-life balance requires strong support from government policies as well as social and cultural shifts. India can learn a lot from countries like New Zealand, Ireland, and Belgium when it comes to promoting work-life balance. A better work-life balance not only contributes to employee happiness but also boosts productivity in the corporate world.

That’s it for today. We hope you’ve found this article informative. Remember to spread the word among your friends. Until we meet again, stay curious!

This article is for informational purposes only. This is not investment advice. Disclaimer: Teji Mandi Disclaimer