"Work-life" is, to me, outdated terminology.
Work is a part of life, so this magical equilibrium between my work hours and my personal hours is actually something else.
It's far more important to discuss the energy balance each individual has and to respect boundaries. Ensuring a healthy balance between what gives us energy and what doesn't is crucial.
Often, I see people struggling to find this so-called balance because they have difficulty setting boundaries and honoring their own preferences, not just at work but also in their personal lives. It's not always the organization's responsibility to provide these boundaries if you're unable to communicate your needs.
Your employer is not your parent and isn't there to protect you like one.
At times, individuals work in organizations or under managers who repeatedly disregard boundaries. It's often a combination of a manager not respecting boundaries and an organization overlooking boundary violations, occasionally even rewarding those who cross personal limits.
If you feel there's an imbalance, with more energy going out than being received, consider asking yourself the following questions and reflecting on your thoughts:
Have I set clear boundaries?
Does my direct manager respect my boundaries?
Is it a company value to truly allow you to recharge?
Does your superior and the entire chain of command follow this practice?
If you frequently feel drained, do you believe your current job is the right fit for you?
Create a list of what motivates you in this job. How much of it relies on materialistic aspects like compensation or the lucrativeness of your role? What social status does it provide, and how crucial is that status to you?
picture: Lux le monde, Mauritius. Me taking the afternoon off to have a cocktail and watch the sunset.
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