Many companies talk about a so-called “Work/Life Balance” – but there are very (very) few companies who truly take this seriously.
Did you know that most people spend about 10 hours per day at work and commuting to/from work? That leaves just 14 more hours in the day. And then take into account that on average, people sleep 7-8 hours per day. So now we’re down to 7 hours left in the entire day.
Okay, so let’s pretend that you spend all 7 of those remaining hours with your family. Even so, you’re still spending 15 more hours during the week at work (and commuting to work) than you are with your family.
Balance?
I’m not so sure that’s a balance. Why have we created a system where you spend more time during the week with people you barely know, than with your own flesh and blood?
Let’s rethink this.
It’s time to reconsider our options. I, for one, as a business owner – have been able to set my own schedule. In fact, I’ve turned down many a job because they wanted me to come onsite every single day, and do my work from their office. However, most of what I do (web design, web development, writing, marketing, etc.) doesn’t actually require face to face interaction. So I’ve had to push back. Now granted, I try to see my clients in person at least bi-weekly to keep the relationship healthy – but there’s simply no reason for me to work onsite 9-5 every day.
What about you?
Do you have any flexibility? Would your boss let you work from home a day or two (or more)? You never know until you ask. Or as a wise person once told us: The only answer to an un-asked question is No. So it’s worth a try.
If you’re tired of spending 60% of your waking life at an office – as opposed to spending more time around family and friends – perhaps you can make a change. It might require some digging, some drawing a line in the sand, some determination & guts. But it can be done. I’ve had to fight for it – and even take short-term financial losses because of it – but in the long-run it’s been completely worth it.
Time for a change
As Diane Nash, a leader of the sit-ins during the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s, once said:
“Freedom is people realizing that they are their own leader.”
You are your own leader. If you’re tired of the 9-5 day in and day out, and you want to spend more time with those closest to you – start exploring your options: Work from home options. Flexible schedule options. Different career path options. You never know what might turn up.
You only have one life to live. Make it a great one.
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Onwards and upwards.