Reimagining balance in the work-nonwork domain

The quest for work-life balance is becoming increasingly important, particularly for women working in the IT industry. Multiple studies point at the stress experienced by IT workers at various levels further exacerbated by the demands of working in a hybrid setup—a work trend that is projected to remain in a post-pandemic world.

The case of Grace, one of the six wonderful women I have had the privilege of interviewing for my dissertation, perfectly demonstrates the evolving understanding of the word ‘balance’ and the complex interplay between professional aspirations and personal responsibilities. Grace’s story—a 41-year-old IT manager and a mother—is marked by significant life events and a decade-long hiatus from her career, highlights the nuanced understanding of work, family, and self-care in today's corporate culture.

Grace's return to the workforce underscores a pivotal shift in her view of work. Once positioned to serve as the central theme of her identity and goals, Grace became more cognizant of the toll that overwork can take on health. And while she now views her career as a means to an end, Grace makes sure to prioritize family while also doing meaningful work.

This shift in perspective is evidence of a broader transformation in the workplace. The meaning of work now extends to encompass personal growth, social impact, and the pursuit of passion. Grace’s experience shows that when balance and satisfaction are found at the workplace, this sense of accomplishment can boost morale, empowering women to better manage their roles at home and in personal growth. In turn, the fulfillment and positive experiences she garnered from the non-work roles can reinforce commitment at the workplace.

Grace’s story highlighted the power of a woman’s sense of agency in navigating the challenges of the work-nonwork domain. Individual agency has emerged as a dynamic attribute, intricately shaped by the interplay of factors within and beyond the workplace. I have found that a woman's agency is at its strongest when she is able to navigate the interwoven domains of work and personal life with a firm sense of identity, purpose, and mission. This core sense of self forms the foundation upon which she builds her life, shaping her interactions within both the work and nonwork spheres. Thus, when work demands become intrusive, in a sense that it disrupts this foundational sense of purpose, there is a lack of balance. This disruption is not merely a matter of increased workload but an interference with the woman's intrinsic values and envisioned life trajectory.

These insights compel me to strongly advocate for us all to radically reimagine the concept of 'balance.' Grace’s narrative disrupts the conventional notions of work-life “balance,” introducing a more integrated and balanced model. The traditional metaphor of balance, often depicted as a tightrope walker, suggests a constant, precarious juggling of responsibilities. This metaphor reflects the struggle to maintain equilibrium, with the ever-present risk of tipping too far in one direction. However, the story of Grace challenges that notion. Instead of a seesaw balancing act, I advocate seeing balance in a more holistic view, exemplified by one of my favorite balances pose in yoga-the Tree Pose. This pose emphasizes finding one’s center of gravity, stability, and balance, facilitating the development of a present-moment awareness of life, which is grounded yet dynamic. All this might suggest that the “center of balance” can be found but on the condition of moving towards it, strengthening it from the ground while “reaching” to the top.

And just like in yoga in where a pose may present a challenge beyond our current skill level, we can employ tools such as a yoga block, a wall, or a chair. These aids do not alter the fundamental nature of the pose but provide support to achieve and maintain it more effectively. Within the context of the work domain, the role of organizational structures is pivotal, serving as supportive tools that mirror the function of a yoga block in maintaining balance within a challenging pose. In Grace’s experience, the provisions made by organizations, such as flexible work arrangements or well-being programs, do not alter the intrinsic nature of her work. Instead, they provide a foundation upon which employees can find stability amidst the demands of their roles.

Thus, I invite you to consider: How can we, as part of an organization, be more like those yoga blocks? How can we provide that support and stability, helping everyone achieve a more holistic balance in both their work and personal lives?