“Discover Work-Life Balance with Easy Steps!”
Many individuals express a willingness to undergo a procedure known as “severance,” according to a recent survey. However, there are more effective and healthier methods to attain a balance between work and personal life.
The phrase “Don’t live to work. Work to live” is a common mantra that resonates with many people. However, the TV series “Severance” takes this concept to a new level, where employees agree to have their memories of work erased through a surgical procedure. While this extreme approach may promise an ideal work-life balance, the show reveals the toll it takes on individuals’ bodies and minds.
Despite the dramatic portrayal in the series, some individuals feel so overwhelmed by their work-life imbalance that they would consider undergoing the “severance” procedure if given the opportunity. A survey conducted by People Managing People found that a majority of participants (68%) would agree to be “severed” for the right salary, with some willing to do so for as little as $200,000.
The survey results highlight the challenges many individuals face in achieving a healthy work-life balance. Financial stress, job insecurity, and lack of control over work tasks contribute to this imbalance. Psychologist and executive coach Lauren Appio notes that addressing these underlying issues can help individuals achieve a better balance between their professional and personal lives.
Achieving a harmonious work-life balance without resorting to extreme measures like “severance” is possible. By establishing boundaries and incorporating rituals or routines to signify the end of the workday, individuals can separate their work and personal lives in a healthier manner. Taking control over how work is approached and finding meaning in one’s job can also contribute to a more sustainable work-life balance.
Ultimately, achieving work-life harmony requires a conscious effort to prioritize self-care and set clear boundaries between work and personal life. By implementing simple strategies and making intentional choices, individuals can create a more balanced and fulfilling lifestyle without resorting to drastic measures.
Appio suggested that finding comforting or enjoyable things to look forward to can be beneficial. Avery Morgan, the chief human resources officer at EduBirdie, has a two-part separation ritual. First, she enters the ‘elevator’ by letting go of any work FOMO, checking her accomplishments, planning for the next day, and closing all work tabs to signal the end of the day. Then, she undergoes a transformation by changing out of work clothes, taking a short walk or diving into a fiction book, and tending to her plants, which helps her brain switch off and enjoy downtime.
Morgan emphasized the importance of a 20-minute transition period to avoid phone calls and tasks, aiming for a peaceful shift before re-entering the world. Implementing technological barriers to limit work interruptions during off-hours, such as using Focus Mode on Android and iOS, can help maintain boundaries. Setting a specific time to stop checking work messages and utilizing an out-of-office responder overnight can also be effective strategies.
It’s normal for work worries to intrude on personal time, but Appio advised validating these thoughts and practicing self-compassion to navigate them. Acknowledging feelings and reminding oneself of their resilience can aid in releasing work concerns and truly enjoying free time to prevent burnout.
The story of the severed workers in Lumon serves as a stark reminder of the inhumane work culture that prioritizes productivity over well-being. However, individuals still retain the autonomy to manage how work influences their lives and moods. Let’s make conscious choices to prioritize self-care and balance in a world where work-life boundaries are often blurred.
