The phrase “work-life balance” has become so common in academia that we rarely question its underlying assumption: that work and life are opposing forces that need to be carefully balanced against each other. This mindset often leads to guilt and stress as we try to maintain an impossible equilibrium, feeling that any time given to one area must necessarily detract from the other.
But what if we’re thinking about it wrong?
Instead of striving for balance, consider aiming for harmony. In music, harmony isn’t about different notes cancelling each other out or competing for space – it’s about how different elements work together to create something more complete and meaningful.
Moving towards work-life harmony
When we shift from seeking balance to creating harmony, new possibilities emerge:
- Your research interests can spark engaging conversations with friends and family, enriching relationships rather than detracting from them
- Teaching preparation can become an opportunity for personal growth and learning
- Writing time can be a form of meaningful self-expression rather than just another task
- Conference travel can combine professional development with personal exploration
This shift in perspective isn’t about working more or less – it’s about finding ways for different aspects of your life to complement and enhance each other rather than compete. Work-life harmony isn’t about eliminating boundaries between work and personal life. It aims to recognise that when approached thoughtfully, these different areas of life can create something richer together than they could separately.
To put everything in balance is good. To put everything in harmony is better.
Understanding how work and life can harmonise rather than conflict is essential for developing sustainable academic practices that enhance rather than diminish your well-being.
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