Work-Life Balance

The concept of work-life balance has been a hot topic of debate, with each generation having different perspective.

For business owners, work-life balance can often feel like just a dream. But how can entrepreneurs find harmony between their personal lives and business responsibilities?

When I was working for a brand new recruitment agency, I report directly to the COO. He's a classic example on what burnout can do to a person. He started well with ambition, high energy, and generally a nice boss to work for; but along the way he spiraled into oblivion. In the beginning, he's an understanding and logical leader. He will teach the team on how to achieve their targets, work together with each person to overcome challenges, and actually care about their well being; with that, great results are generated. However, through time, I assume it was from big boss's pressure to 5X the results within a year, he became the very definition of nightmare boss from hell. He started made weird assumptions like suspecting everyone for trying to sabotage his business, reacted and made decisions based on emotions. There were shouting involved on matters that could easily be solved with an email. From there, he stressed everyone out, results deteriorated, and eventually top sales left then followed by everyone else.

Now I'm in a leadership position, the lessons from the COO's journey serve as a reminder. It's essential to keep myself in check to avoid a similar downward spiral. The challenging part is maintaining the fine balance between guiding the team towards success and ensuring self-preservation, for both the team and myself.

Sometimes, the best strategy is forcing oneself to step back and rest. but it's easier said and done. A messy and fatigued mind prevents you from clear thinking and productivity. Learning the art of proper delegation is another vital strategy. It's a skill in itself as you need to understand everyone's desires, strength, weakness, challenges.

The concept of work-life balance varies across generations. Gen X often associated longer hours with higher pay hence it's more about loyalty to the job. Gen Y sought identity and recognition, aiming to be the best in their field. Gen Z prioritizes self-happiness and self-care, refusing to be taken advantage of. The generational shift in values is evident, with each group defining success and work-life balance differently. Understand how each person see things do help to create that balance.

The take-away is simple: Work is vital, but mental and physical health are equally essential. To achieve the best results, maintaining a balanced mind and body should be a priority.

I would like to know more about other entrepreneurs. What's your take on work-life balance?