Work-Life Balance or Work-Life Integration?
YOU DECIDE!
But first, let me define the differences from my perspective and how choosing between work-life integration and work-life balance can depend on various factors, including career demands, personal circumstances, and societal expectations. Both important concepts, but they differ in their approach to managing the relationship between your work and personal life.
About a year ago, when I was deeply immersed in work-life integration, I had to adapt, ensuring I was available for clients while also caring for my mom and my behavioral dog. Between my private coaching business, managing my online course, The Beauty School Sequel, and traveling to salons for teaching sessions, I found myself constantly juggling personal responsibilities and work commitments. Needless to say I became adept at multitasking. I was able to facilitate coaching calls while en-route to the doctor with mom, and manage personal or business affairs while grocery shopping, (thanks to my trusty AirPods). It was a necessary adjustment to effectively manage my time amidst my daily responsibilities.
Work-life integration seeks to blend work and personal life in a more fluid manner, allowing for greater efficiency and productivity.
More recently, as I’ve continued to navigate a new phase in my career as a consultant for DevaCurl, my current role requires me to physically be at the computer for ZOOM sessions, curriculum writing and my private coaching clients. This shift has necessitated tightening up my time management skills even further, a task I've only recently mastered. I've transitioned from work-life integration to striving for a more traditional work-life balance. This past week proved that I am on the right track. My friend came to visit with me for the week. From shopping in Palm Beach to enjoying a delightful lunch, we seamlessly transitioned into a productive afternoon where I worked on a presentation and I carved out time to finalize this blog you are currently reading! But, the best part is I actually found genuine enjoyment in the process! In the midst of it all, we managed to squeeze in moments at the beach, gym time, and a visit with mom.
Work-life balance typically emphasizes maintaining a clear separation between work and personal life, allowing individuals to dedicate specific time and energy to each aspect without significant overlap or interference.
This approach can promote reduced stress, better mental health, improved relationships, and overall well-being by ensuring that individuals have time for relaxation, hobbies, family, and social activities outside of work.
What I learned from shifting my approach to work-life balance is that with effective time management and careful planning, anything is achievable. Work-life balance may be more suitable for some who prefer clear boundaries, while work-life integration may be better for those who want greater flexibility. Ultimately, the key is to find the right approach that allows you to achieve professional success and personal fulfillment while managing stress and maintaining overall well-being.
But ultimately, when your work becomes enjoyable and fulfilling, it transcends the concept of work itself.
Have you found your own work-life balance or work -life integration path?
One of the biggest problems we face as beauty pros is our busy schedule. Working weekends and long hours is only sustainable for so long. You may feel that this schedule is just part of what you signed up for - but what if I told you that it didn’t have to be that way forever?
It IS possible to build a life and a schedule that brings passion and profit simultaneously, without burning out along the way. And it IS possible to have more time with your family, or a Saturday evening date night with your partner. It all begins with building the business you’ve dreamed of. It’s the vision that keeps you up at night, that feels just slightly out of reach.
The reality is tat it’s not as far away from becoming your reality as you might believe.The missing piece has always been developing the skills you need to run a business of the caliber that allows you to take time away while allowing more enjoyment into your life than ever before. This is bigger than simply learning a new technical skill. This comes down to strengthening your brand DNA, workplace culture, and your client influencing skills. No one else teaches this like I do - which is why so many beauty pros are stuck working long hours. Dreaming rather than bringing their vision to life. so,
I want to help you bring this vision to life, which is exactly what we will do in Private Coaching.
Private Coaching is a high touch package designed for the beauty pro who is serious about growing their business with the right kind of support and practice. Past clients have seen tremendous success during our time together. Today, Private Coaching is the only way I work with clients 1:1.
I invite you to dream bigger.
Imagine a life that you truly desire, and know that you are worthy of this coming to fruition. I can’t wait to watch you walk into this next version of yourself.
If this feels aligned for you, book a Discovery Call so we can chat and determine if this is the right fit for you at this time.
From Our House To Yours,
Shari xx
At House Of Harbinger, we’ll give you the tools to help you empower your workplace and team. It all begins with the online program, The Beauty School Sequel. All of the lessons inside help you set goals, create a clear plan of action and uphold the values that will help you and your team reach your fullest business potential.