Research reflects the importance of a Life beyond Work

“Satisfaction at work is influenced by factors such as benefits, pay, relationships, and commute length. But all of this boils down to two things being important, regardless of your circumstances: Having a life beyond work, and having the money to afford it. If you have a job that grants you both of these, you might be happier than you realize.” – Harvard Business Review

Most of the time we wait for credible scientific research and findings to support our beliefs in concepts that matter to us. Don’t we? It is a kind of reassurance that why we believe in what we believe. One such issue is that of maintaining work life balance. Being overwhelmed with work all the time and having no life beyond it dramatically limits our personal space. A research by Harvard Business Review brings interesting observations on the table and says, “If you want to be happy at work, have a life outside it”.

Having a life beyond work does not make you any less ambitious or dedicated

Having a life beyond work does not imply at all that you are not fully committed to your job, you do not see yourself climbing the career ladder, you are not ambitious, or you are not seeking any financial growth. All it means is that you care about work-life balance. For you, your personal life is equally important and your work does not define who you are.

Here’s why a life beyond work is important

Makes You an interesting individual

Think about all the interesting people in your life, the ones with whom you love to interact with. These are the people who share their stories and experiences with you. There’s a lot you learn in the light of their journey and you are always happy to get an alternative world view. Do you really think such individuals are always thinking about work? Certainly not. An interesting persona emerges from learning new things despite a busy work schedule. And to learn or dive into things that you love, you need to have a life beyond work.

Helps You Avoid Burnout

Employers across the oil and gas industry are expressing their concern towards their employees experiencing burnout. They are coming forward and initiating changes in the work culture to keep their people inspired and motivated. This is because the managers recognize the fact that burnout leads to reduced efficiency and productivity. Overburdening employees with too many responsibilities does not really work. When you as an individual begin to value your life beyond work, it helps you avoid burnout.

Strengthens You in Tough Times

You are bound to experience challenging times at work. Things will go wrong, as they do sometimes. Having a good personal life gives you something to hold on to. You can unburden yourself before your family and friends and get through the hard times at work. The life beyond work would offer you hope and something to look forward to. Things won’t appear that bad then.

Widens your Knowledge Base

There’s so much to learn and not enough time. That is why you need to take out some time from your regular work schedule. Having a life beyond work gives you an opportunity to learn something new and widen your perspective. This will further help you add more value to your organization. You might come across a brilliant idea while reading a good book or travelling to a new place. Sharing it with the team is always a wonderful idea. Creative, multi-dimensional, and intellectual individuals are always appreciated by the employers.

Gives you time to bond with your loved ones

Working long hours can hurt even the best of your relationships. And you wouldn’t want that. A recent research in the United Kingdom has revealed that the third biggest tension on relationships is a poor work life balance. There is no time left for your spouse, wife, children, or friends if you are always engrossed in work. It can damage your personal life to a great extent and cause depression and loneliness. It’s wonderful to have a career, but can you continue your life journey only with it? Think about it and think harder when you find yourself working the next weekend instead of spending quality time with your family.

(Suggested Read: Is your work affecting personal life?)

Remember, your 5 day work week is not your whole life. It is a part of your life.

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(The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Energy Dais.)