Finding Your Groove: The Battle Between Balance & Integration
Eternal Talks
Let’s talk about the hot topic in the work world — work-life balance or work-life integration. Which one is better? This is a common debate and can be confusing. But don’t worry, I’ll share some perspectives to help us understand the battle between balance and integration in the workplace.
Unpack The Meanings of “Balance” and “Integration”
To start, we examine the definition of work-life balance found in various articles and writings. Some believe work-life balance works best in jobs with regular 9 to 5 hours, while others believe work and personal life can both exist but each should have its own space to thrive.
Work-life integration means blending our work and personal lives. This means we take care of our responsibilities in a way that fits our schedules and there is no set expectation to balance our work and personal lives equally.
Fit or Unfit
Sometimes, talking about work-life balance and integration will not go on forever. There will be times when work and personal life clash. It depends on what kind of job you have. I am not saying that blending work and life is the new standard for balance. In reality, something always has to give. The key is timing. How much time do you want to spend at work, in your personal life, or finding a balance between the two?
Lighter Opinion, Calm Within
In the end, it all comes down to time. We each have our own priorities in life. I believe that work-life balance and integration are complex and interdependent, affecting each other in many ways.
Working in an office with a 9–5 schedule balances work and personal life. However, it can be challenging for those in high-level positions due to their added responsibilities. What are your thoughts on this?
Freelancers, part-timers, and remote office employees often find themselves operating within a work-life integration framework without even realizing it. Is that true?
Your perspective on work can determine what kind of job you want, what role you play, and how fast-paced your work environment is. Work is a constant and will always be a part of your life. It’s time to prioritize your goals and align them with your life values, creating a harmonious balance between your personal and professional life.
Embrace your dynamic nature of work and life. Live a life with passion and purpose, never settling for anything less than greatness.
