A concept inspired by Severance, the TV series about a British employee who would separate his work memories from his personal ones if he could.
New research shows that Gen Z workers are more concerned about work-life-balance than any other generation.
Unmind, an online platform for workplace mental health, surveyed over 2,000 UK workers and found that 2/5 (41%) of them struggle to turn off their work while they are away. The study found that many feel under pressure to stay connected. Forty percent of respondents said their employer had contacted them after hours, and 44 percent checked their emails or messages in their free time.
Blurred Lines
The study also highlights the influence of workplace culture on identities. More than a quarter (38%) reported that they had a “work persona” that was different from their true self. Nearly a third (30%) of respondents felt that their work dominates their identity and makes it difficult to maintain boundaries between personal and professional life.
These concerns are even more prominent among Gen Z workers. 52 percent of them admit to having a persona at work and 44 percent feel that their job consumes too much of their identities.
Unmind CEO Nick Taylor said that the results show the blurring of the line between work and private life.
He said that the challenge for organizations is to create a workplace culture in which employees are comfortable with setting boundaries and not feeling the need compartmentalize their work and personal identity.
Pressures to stay connected and appear busy
Only 56 percent of employees report being satisfied with their work/life balance. Nearly one third of employees (29%) considered quitting due to a lack of balance between work life and personal life. And more than a third (36%) felt guilty about taking time off. One in three employees (33%) admits to pretending to be busy. This number rises to 47 percent for Gen Z. This is a reflection of a culture that values presenteeism over productivity.
Mental health issues are also becoming more prevalent. In the last year, nearly one fifth (19%) of UK workers were signed off sick because of mental health problems. The figure increases to 34% amongst those aged 18-24, and 31% amongst those aged 25-34. Burnout has been widely acknowledged, with 83 per cent of employees saying that it’s a common and significant issue at their workplace. Also, 61 per cent of employees have seen an increase in absences and turnover due to mental health in their workplace.
“This study is a stark reminder that people are under a lot of pressure and stress today,” Dr Taylor said. No one should have to forget their job to survive.
Employers can create a supportive culture by taking proactive measures. Employees will not feel the need to disconnect from their work in order to protect mental health. Dr Taylor says that organisations should prioritize mental, emotional, and social wellbeing, by offering access to proactive tools and therapy.
