In today’s fast-paced world, the discussion around work-life balance has evolved into a more nuanced concept known as work-life harmony. This term emphasizes the integration of personal and professional lives rather than the traditional dichotomy of work versus life. A key aspect of this conversation is the belief that the number of hours worked can significantly impact both productivity and personal fulfillment.
Recently, SN Subrahmanyan, the Chairman of Larsen & Toubro (L&T), made headlines with his provocative statement suggesting that Indians could work up to 90 hours a week. This raises critical questions about the impact of such long hours on work-life harmony. Does working more hours equate to greater productivity, or can it lead to burnout and diminished returns?
Re-evaluating Work Hours
The traditional belief that longer hours yield better results is increasingly being challenged. Research indicates that productivity does not necessarily correlate with hours spent in the office. Various studies have shown that overworked employees often experience decreased efficiency, reduced creativity, and increased stress levels.
Take, for instance, countries like Denmark and Sweden, which prioritize work-life harmony through shorter workweeks. In Sweden, a trial of a six-hour workday demonstrated that employees were not only happier but also more productive and engaged. Similarly, Denmark frequently ranks as one of the happiest countries in the world, partly due to its work culture that values employee well-being over sheer output.
Several organizations worldwide exemplify work-life harmony by fostering environments that allow employees to thrive both professionally and personally:
• Google: Known for its innovative work culture, Google offers flexibility in work hours, remote work options, and a plethora of wellness programs, thereby prioritizing employee satisfaction and productivity.
• Netflix: The company’s “freedom and responsibility” culture emphasizes trust and autonomy. Employees are encouraged to manage their own schedules and workloads, fostering a sense of ownership and reducing the need for long hours.
• Salesforce: This tech giant not only advocates for a flexible work environment but also emphasizes mental health initiatives and volunteer time off. By supporting employees’ personal interests outside of work, Salesforce nurtures a culture of harmony.
• Basecamp: The project management software company is known for its 32-hour workweek policy during the summer months, allowing employees to enjoy more time off without sacrificing productivity. Basecamp is a testament to the idea that reducing hours can enhance creativity and output.
Moving Towards Harmony
The key takeaway is that fostering work-life harmony doesn’t merely mean counting hours; it’s about creating an environment where employees feel valued and can disengage from work when needed. Organizations that prioritise quality of work over quantity see lower turnover rates, higher employee satisfaction, and increased loyalty.
While leaders like SN Subrahmanyan might advocate for longer hours in certain industries, the global trend toward flexibility, shorter workdays, and a focus on employee well-being suggests that it is time to rethink the traditional notions of work hours.
Achieving true work-life harmony requires a shift in mindset—not just from employees but from employers as well. By prioritizing the quality of work and the well-being of employees, organizations can create a more conducive environment for productivity and satisfaction. Ultimately, it’s not about how many hours you work but about how harmoniously you can integrate your work and life.
Flexibility at work is not only about “where you work from” but also “when you work”. Few of my colleagues noted that I worked in the morning on weekends and was worried about my after-work life. As an early riser, it is my choice to manage my work over a cup of coffee so that my Mondays are well-managed.
Similarly, “Quality matters more than quantity” as mentioned by Anand Mahindra Chairperson of Mahindra and Mahindra in an interview with Palki Sharma.
Jorely Mathew
Chartered FCIPD, FCPHR, MBA, CHE, BHM, ACSTH – (ICF)