The Image of work-life balance in 2022

Date: 21 November 2023
Author: Natasha Thompson

 

The image of work-life balance in 2022

 There are massive benefits to “Take your kids to work day” initiatives; but now that we are either working remotely or at least hybrid, What now?

 

Pre-COVID work-life balance

Pre-COVID the research available around the benefits to bringing our nation’s children to work for the day were endless. According to Forbes in 2019 “4 Great Reasons To Take Your Kid To Work” included that kids would enhance their problem solving skills, would learn a plethora of roles and “best practice” behaviors, time management and work – life balance.

Several acclaimed authors, lecturers, entrepreneurs and highly successful business people affirm this sentiment such as Warren Buffett who created the Secret Millionaires Club and wrote the foreword to “How to start your very first business” through Downtown Bookworks; a children’s publishing company that target readers up to 12 years old.

The well-being of our children is our number one priority. The basic life skills we strive to instill in our children are available at our workplace. Bringing our kids to the office provides insights and the following benefits to name but a few:

• Why education matters
• Perseverance pays off
• Inspires leadership
• Shares another side of you
• Bolsters your bond
• Shows work-life balance
• Respect
• Encourages an Altruist spirit
• Provides an opportunity for immersion learning
• Quality professional relationships

Take the children to work day 2022

Taking your children to work doesn’t always mean taking your children to the office. “One of the reasons the rich get richer, the poor get poorer, and the middle class struggles in debt is that the subject of money is taught at home, not in school.” – Robert Kiyosaki.

Now more than ever, with the global movement to hybrid work structures, the 4 day work week and completely remote job opportunities; the universal term of work-life balance has shifted.

Being more available for your family in your at home environment can certainly be beneficial however we recommend implementing a structure that works for you to continue to be the best parent and professional.

Consider the following tips:

• Join the 5am Club and catch the worm: You still need the quiet moments of the morning to prepare your day. Although you won’t face traffic issues with the commute to school and work, getting an earlier start allows for more quality time in the afternoons and evening with family.
• Set Boundaries: Just like at the office, set up your environment for productivity, success and minimal distractions. Organising your space to free you from potential unnecessary stress will positively impact your family and at home environment.
• Prepare kids activities: As much as you enjoy a productive diary of meetings with purpose in an environment that is fresh and organised; your children will thrive with a structured itinerary of activities that will stimulate education and creativity and most importantly; avoid constant distractions.
• Goal Setting: Just as you prepare your day with tasks and projects to fulfil your obligations; share a list of goals and chores with your children. They will achieve a sense of pride and purpose.
• Virtual meetings and conference calls: Schedule your professional interactions during quiet family times such as early mornings, nap time or screen times.
• Meal planning and prep: Even if you’re not a parent; meal planning and prep is a great way to not only take care of your health but free up time for other priorities.
• Fresh air: The four walls of your home can become claustrophobic for you and your children. Try coordinate your lunch break to include an excursion, walk around the neighbourhood park or build a fort in your garden.

Work Life balance looks good

The benefit now is that spontaneous visits from our children or pets during a corporate virtual meeting is considered normal and can actually be endearing. It’s an opportunity to truly appreciate a positive company culture and connect with our colleagues, clients and suppliers in a more authentic and natural way. We no longer need to feel flustered or be apologetic for having a strong family unit, quality relationships with our loved ones or shelter our bonds from the “old” confines of a professional environment, position or space. Celebrate and embrace your wins as a versatile, resilient and adaptable human being, rather than being forced to separate your strengths and weakness into professional and personal.