August 22nd, 2023
You know that feeling when you are at the top of your game at work? That feeling that you are a key part of something important that couldn’t go on without you? Your expertise is valued and that feeling defines you as a responsible adult. You are playing your part in the American Dream after all, so what’s wrong with that feeling?
I will tell you what is wrong with that feeling…it’s addictive. When you define your self worth by what you can do for someone else’s company, doing their bidding, then what does that say about your real life? Is your personal life secondary to your work self-esteem? For many the answer is yes, and it’s a shame, because when you derive your ego from work, it is impossible to unplug, relax, and recharge. You procrastinate or cancel vacations because your colleagues couldn’t possible get by without you. When you do actually go on vacation you can't help but leave your phone in plain view and you answer the texts, calls, and emails because they need you.
But, you know who else needs you? Your spouse and your kids. You are ignoring them and it hurts them. Your kids are growing up and they do not want what you have. They will demand a better work life balance and if companies want these brilliant young mind’s skill sets they will have to adjust their expectations.
Generational Differences
Millennials and Generation X have starkly different attitudes towards work-life balance, largely influenced by the times they grew up in. Generation X (born roughly between 1965 and 1980) witnessed the transition from more traditional work environments to the rise of technology and globalization. They tend to value stability and work ethic, often putting in longer hours. However, they also experienced the beginnings of conversations around work-life balance.
Millennials (born roughly between 1981 and 1996) grew up in a rapidly changing digital world. They tend to prioritize work-life balance more than previous generations, seeking flexible work arrangements and valuing experiences over just climbing the corporate ladder. Millennials were some of the first to popularize the concept of work-life integration, blending work and personal life with the help of technology.
Generation X works hard and that’s a good thing because they are providing for their family, but this often leaves no balance when vacations are sacrificed. After all, even robots break down every once in a while and need a tune up. Employers who expect Millennials to sacrifice their time and sanity for their company are having to rethink how their companies are structured. It turns out that you really can’t do more with less. Millennials know this and will not put in the extra time. They know this imbalance causes burn out because they see their parents struggle with it everyday.
When employees put work first Monday through Friday, and most weekends they sit at their computer to catch up on tasks left over from the last week, or to get a jump on next week’s deliverables they may get more done, but their results are dulled by their inability to see joy, embrace creativity, and grasp innovation. This is why vacations with those who bring us the most pleasure are important. If we are to be competitive in a global economy then our companies need to produce the very best results and I can tell you that tired Gen-Xers are not capable of this.
European Differences
The effects of the American grind, as compared to our European counterparts, is a stark contrast. Vacation policies vary widely in both the US and Europe, but generally Europe tends to have more generous vacation allowances, often ranging from twenty to thirty days or more. In the US, it’s common for employees to receive around ten days of paid vacation, although some companies offer more. In Europe, it’s generally considered more common for bosses to respect employees’ vacation time and not contact them unless it’s truly necessary and urgent. Many European countries prioritize work-life balance and value employees’ time away from work.
Burnout is a complex issue influenced by various factors, including work culture, healthcare systems, and societal norms. In recent years, burnout has gained attention globally. European countries, known for their focus on work-life balance and social support, often have measures in place to address burnout. Some countries even legally mandate limits on work hours and emphasize employee well-being.
In the US, while awareness of burnout is increasing, work culture and labor laws can vary significantly from state to state. The US generally has longer working hours and fewer mandated vacation days compared to some European countries. However, it’s important to note that individual experiences of burnout can vary widely and are influenced by personal, workplace, and cultural factors. Suicide rates are lower in Europe too. Historically many European countries have had lower suicide rates compared to the United States. Factors influencing these rates include access to mental health care, cultural attitudes, socioeconomic conditions, and more.
In a labor shortage market the PTOAffirm accreditation can give American businesses a serious advantage at attracting the best candidates and at retaining their most valued employees, which can save participating organizations hundred of thousands of dollars each year in rehiring and training costs derived from having to hire new employees to replace those lost from burn out.
PTOAffirm your company today!
Change the trajectory of your organization.
__
Shannon Joy Mekeel’s first book was inspired by her husband’s prostate cancer diagnosis and androgen deprivation therapy. It is entitled You Have Arrived and will be released in fall 2023 and is now available for pre-sale at ShannonJoyMekeel.com.
The companion documentary, Hurry Back will debut April 2024 at the inaugural Redfish Film Fest in Historic Downtown Panama City. This 12-part series tells the story of her family’s struggles and victories over the past century.
Comments
Post a Comment