In a fast-paced world, achieving a work-life balance has often felt like an abstract concept. We’ve all heard about those one-size-fits-all solutions that promise to bring equilibrium, such as rigid schedules and designated communication hours. But the truth is, there’s no magic formula engraved in a corporate policy or an employee manual. Achieving work-life balance is deeply personal—it can’t be scripted.
So, let’s start by asking ourselves, “What does work-life balance truly mean to us? How does it look and feel?” The journey to balance begins with these introspective questions. When it comes to being a leader, the key lies in offering your team the flexibility to craft their own personal formula for attaining work-life balance. Let’s be clear, though—remote work alone doesn’t equate to balance. While it may be a vital piece of the puzzle, true flexibility goes beyond our physical location.
I am a firm believer that balance is achieved when I can wholeheartedly devote myself to the task at hand. Whether crafting a compelling presentation for a meeting or preparing a nourishing dinner for my family, my goal is to be fully present, productive, and impactful. I strive to be the best I can be and give my all, regardless of what I am doing. When I attain this state, I find myself productive, content, and fulfilled. Organization serves as a cornerstone to achieving balance in my life. I rely on lists, prioritize tasks, and consciously schedule projects to ensure I can tackle each one effectively. This approach allows me to focus solely on what I’m doing at that moment. Once everything is accounted for in my schedule, I can be present and productive without the weight of unfinished tasks looming in my mind.
Another vital aspect of achieving balance is surrounding ourselves with exceptional people and understanding how and when to leverage the resources available to us. For instance, I leverage talented individuals and resources to help me in areas that I do not enjoy or excel in professionally and personally, resulting in time gained to enjoy family and friends and be more productive in all settings. However, I enjoy the art of cooking and find immense fulfillment in it, so I prioritize it whenever possible.
It’s important to emphasize that while this is the formula that works for me, everyone must define their own unique formula. Ask yourself: What brings me joy and fulfillment? How can I maintain productivity in all areas of my life while fostering healthy relationships? How can I reduce stress and negative behaviors?
The reality is, as leaders, we can’t give our teams work-life balance, but we can provide them with the flexibility and support that enables them to be at their best. We can suggest tools and examples that work for us and those around us. At that point, it’s up to each person to embrace discipline and personal accountability, establishing their own formula for achieving balance and preventing burnout.
For instance, leaders can set a reasonable expectation that emails, calls, and messages should be addressed within 24 hours. Then it’s up to each person to determine when they respond and when to disconnect from their devices entirely based on what works best for them. This requires self-evaluation and a solution-oriented approach.
Discovering the right formula for balance may not happen overnight. It might require uncomfortable changes and adaptability to life’s circumstances. I vividly recall my own struggles while running a business and a household and meeting the needs of my family—I did not always have balance. However, we do what we must, we learn from what we do right and what we do wrong, and we keep adjusting and moving forward. When balance seems elusive, let’s reflect on being our best selves.
When we are able to be present and focus on the task at hand, we will feel better, perform better, and make meaningful contributions in all areas of our lives. This will extend to our relationships and positively impact the people who mean the most to us. Ultimately, that is the best possible outcome.
Lori A. Roth, CPA/ABV, CFF, is a global managing partner at Prager Metis. Learn more at pragermetis.com.
