Work-Life Balance vs. Work-Life Integration: How Are They Different, and Which One Is for You? | Inc.com - Deepstash

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The work-life balance

The work-life balance

The work-life balance broadly refers to the need for more leisure, family time or self-care. Critics of the term think it creates an artificial separation between work and life. Others feel the equation of work on the one side and life on the other is not a balance at all.

In response, the idea of work-life integration is becoming more popular.

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The work-life integration

This approach blends all areas of life. The system does not emphasise rigid boundaries but pivots where each area such as work, home, family, community, health, and personal well-being is given appropriate attention.

The flexibility offered by work-life integration allows professionals to shape their own workday while juggling kids, elderly parents, and other activities.

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The downside of work-life integration

You may integrate work into every area of your life while not giving other parts of your life the same priority. Or you may only be thinking of your work even when you are with your family.

This is because our work responsibilities may give us an adrenaline rush of handling crises and may seem more important than other priorities.

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How to make work-life integration work

  • Create a schedule to ensure you focus on all your priorities outside of work. Put them in your calendar.
  • Ensure that your schedule complements your partner and family. It should enrich your family life.
  • Remain committed to some boundaries. Set aside time each day to block out thoughts of work and focus exclusively on your people.

Work-life balance is a helpful framework. The secret to prioritizing what we value is in the execution.

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