“All work and no play makes Jack/Jill a very dull person”

“All work and no play makes Jack/Jill a very dull person” but in today’s busy and hectic world it is often difficult to get the work/life balance right. In any business a work force that is happy and content contributes enormously to the achieving of the strategic organisational goals and corporate objectives.

It is critical that no matter what business you are in, you must devote some of your time to your family and social life. Never forget that you would not be in the position you are, or as successful as you are without the backing of your family, friends and colleagues. At times work will take over your life and it is easy to forget or disassociate yourself with the outside world. Spend time with your family because children grow up too quickly and partners also get fed up playing second fiddle to work. It is much easier for a family to understand and accept the pressures of your work if they feel valued and know that when you are able to you spend quality time with them.

Likewise if your staff are required to spend time away from home travelling or at other locations around the country, remember that they need time to adjust to being away and also need the opportunity to be with their families as well. Be compassionate wherever possible and although work often has to come first, occasionally relax that requirement and allow the family to take centre stage. Your rewards for such considerations will be immense, if not in the monetary sense.

It comes down to the basic requirement of keeping your work force happy, loyal and gaining their respect. If your work force has a happy home life the chances are that they will perform better at work, therefore you gain in every way. When family members are away from home for a significant period, try and arrange for someone (if you do not feel able) to give their partner a call and see if there is anything that can be done to make things easier and ease the strain of separation. A simple courtesy call can make the world of difference to the way the family view you and your company.

A good manager takes the time to get to know their team, taking an interest in them as people and not just for their productivity. Achieving a satisfactory work/life balance makes for a first rate team, where everyone is at ease and output is high. The manager who leads by example, caring for team members and his or her own family alike inspires loyalty and respect which reaps abundant rewards.