Why work-life balance isn't just a ‘women's issue’

Illustration: TBS

One of my former co-workers — a macho man and dedicated gym enthusiast — consistently worked late to finish his work. He loved providing detailed feedback on marketing content. We valued his commitment but took it for granted, assuming he could handle everything. 

One day, however, he admitted that he struggled to manage the long hours, negatively affecting his personal life and passion for fitness. Seeing someone who usually seemed so strong show such vulnerability was difficult.

When discussing work-life balance, the conversation often centres around women, especially working mothers, who juggle careers and family responsibilities. While this is a critical discussion, one crucial perspective is often overlooked: men also need work-life balance.

The unspoken expectation is that men should prioritise their careers above everything else. Working long hours, missing family events, and putting personal well-being on hold are often viewed as signs of dedication. However, let's be honest — burnout doesn't discriminate by gender.

The silent struggle

Society places a heavy burden on men, expecting them to be the primary providers. This often translates to long working hours, relentless pressure to succeed, and little room to express stress or fatigue. Men are typically expected to just "deal with it". The consequences are severe: high stress, health issues, and strained personal relationships.

A study by the American Psychological Association found that men who lack work-life balance face increased risks of heart disease, depression and anxiety. Yet discussions about flexible work arrangements, mental health days, or sharing household responsibilities rarely include men as beneficiaries. 

Why do men need balance?

Men, like women, experience stress, anxiety, and burnout — often silently. Cultural expectations that men should "tough it out" discourage open conversations about emotional well-being. Achieving a work-life balance is crucial for mental health, as it helps men cope with stress in healthier ways. 

Stronger family bonds are essential for everyone. Simply being physically present is not enough, quality time matters. Today's fathers are more involved in parenting than ever before. Men actively participate in their children's lives, from school drop-offs to bedtime stories. Without a proper work-life balance, they may miss out on important moments of bonding and co-parenting, which can significantly affect the family dynamics and the father's sense of fulfilment. 

Men who work excessively long hours contribute to unequal domestic responsibilities for their partners. Encouraging men to take leaves, engage in household tasks, and participate in caregiving helps foster equitable and respectful partnerships at home.

Men are more than just their job titles. Engaging in creative pursuits, hobbies, friendships, and community roles contributes to a man's identity. A healthy work-life balance allows men to explore these dimensions, leading to more satisfying and well-rounded lives.

Overworked and overstressed employees, regardless of gender, are less productive, less innovative, and more likely to quit. Supporting men's need for balance enhances long-term engagement, leadership effectiveness, and organisational sustainability. 

Breaking the stigma

The good news is that the conversation is slowly evolving. Some companies now offer all employees paternity leave, flexible work hours, and mental health support. However, the stigma persists — many men hesitate to use these benefits, fearing they will appear less committed to their jobs.

It's time to normalise work-life balance for men. Just as we encourage women to pursue careers without guilt, we should also encourage men to prioritise their personal lives without feeling weak.

In the workplace, we must advocate for men to take parental leave, use vacation days, and set healthy boundaries. Responsibilities should be shared fairly within families. Men should feel equally responsible for childcare and household tasks. Above all, we must stop glorifying overwork as a measure of masculinity. Success isn't solely defined by career achievements; personal well-being is equally important.

It's essential to recognise that men, like women, need support in navigating the challenges of balancing work and life. Achieving a fulfilling and happy life isn't just beneficial — it's vital for everyone's well-being. Everyone deserves a chance to thrive and find joy daily.