Family Time
According to a recent study, Family Time is far more important that other aspects of life for most Americans, and a clear majority value physical and outdoor activities. My work with clients supports these findings!
A Pew Research Center study, which came out at the end of May 2023 says that, “About three-quarters of U.S. adults (73%) rate spending time with family as one of the most important things to them personally, regardless of how much time they actually devote to it. Nine-in-ten say they view it either as one of the most important things or as very important but not the most important thing.”
This coincides with my experience as a Career Counselor in which family time and work/life balance most often make the list of my clients top five values (which they directly use to help make career decisions). They also share about NOT having this value met at previous jobs and feeling guilty or frustrated at the impact on their families.
Job Search Screening Tool
Additionally, I help clients create a job search screening tool – including information on what they need or must have in a future job – and work/life balance or aspects related to that are always on the list. These aspects are expressed as: having a “regular” schedule mostly within school day hours, allowing some choice of hours, a flexible schedule allowing for upcoming appointments, ability to work online or hybrid working hours, or a choice to complete work outside of their normal schedule.
Some clients also talk directly about the employer’s values and culture, wanting them to value family and time outside work, and to recognize that their employees are whole people, with a spectrum of life priorities. I coach them on how to research a company or organization’s culture through online sources and interview questions.
Being Active and Outdoors
On another related topic, the study finds that, “Clear majorities say being physically active (74%), being outdoors and experiencing nature (72%)…are at least very important to them.”
This resonates with what I hear from my clients about health and stress management, or a concern about their level of fitness, which may even be holding them back from advancing in a physical career. If an employer has a wellness program, whether that be yoga classes, a workout room, or a wellness area to rest and recharge, this seems to be a valuable benefit for people who are considering working there. This makes sense to me!
I’m curious, how much do you value these aspects of work?
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#workinghours #job #career #careertransition #wellness #workculturematters