WorkLifeBalanceFörderung

Work-life balance refers to the equilibrium between paid work and the non-work aspects of life, such as family, health, and leisure. It is a multidimensional concept that involves time allocation, energy, satisfaction with both work and personal life, and participation in activities outside of work.

The concept has grown in prominence as work demands increase and digital technologies extend work into non-work hours. Balancing is subjective and varies by individual, culture, occupation, and life stage.

Determinants include organizational policies such as flexible scheduling, remote or hybrid work, and leave programs; job design factors like autonomy and workload; management culture; and caregiving responsibilities outside of work.

Measurement typically relies on self-reported perceptions and time-use data, with outcomes including burnout, engagement, job satisfaction, health, and turnover. Strategies to improve balance include flexible work arrangements, boundary management, reasonable expectations, supportive leadership, and encouraging use of leave and vacations.

Critiques argue that balance is not equally attainable for all workers, and that structural inequalities, unequal access to resources, and cultural norms influence opportunities. Some occupations inherently demand long hours or unpredictable schedules, complicating attempts at balance.

In practice, work-life balance is a dynamic, context-dependent objective pursued by individuals and organizations through policies, practices, and personal boundary setting.