Can We Scale Our Work-Life Balance?
We hear it from everywhere — work-life balance is the most important thing to achieve. Not only for remote workers but for everyone.
The statement comes from a premise that we can express the both parts in absolute numbers. Then we balance the scales so the level is just right and work hard to keep it that way as long as possible. Or even forever.
Our life does not work this way though.
We can express neither of the both parts in absolute numbers not even set a ratio. There is no golden circle or rule of thirds that set the equilibrium and we live happily forever.
Life is like fluid.
The both parts are filling the same space. The same bubble we call life.
If there is a pressure on one side the other contracts. Other times it works the other way around.
Trying to settle the score with exact numbers makes the life unstable.
Why would we want to spend more time at work when there is not much happening? Do we really need to leave at 5pm every day? Even if finishing work in hands moves us miles ahead for the next few months?
Life consists from both parts for a reason.
The balance is being established by constant acceptance of life as changing organism. No matter how much we want to impose a strict order to it we are fighting against windmills. Against ourselves.
More than anything else we should ask three simple questions each time we feel things are changing.
- Am I getting the best value out of the time spent?
- Is what I am doing necessary or having a great impact on the future?
- What are the other things I am sacrificing to do this?
If we stay honest with us, the answers tell us exactly what we should do and where our temporary work-life balance is.
