Managing The Work-Life Balance
Leading at Light Speed is a groundbreaking leadership book by Eric Douglas describing the 10 Quantum Leaps which build trust, spark innovation, and create a high-performing organization.
Start with Yourself, Chapter Nine, displays Eric's notion that a valuable quality of leadership is the ability to balance work and life. He communicates that this is something to be valued in others, as well. Their personal life will become fully accessible and they will be able to establish a pattern in their schedule. Whether this schedule includes eating dinner with the family four nights a week or attending their kid's sports practices, this schedule allows for a more fullfilling family life. Whether through unpaid leave or flexible scheduling, they provide people with the opportunity to lead productive personal lives. This results in the elevation of trust levels throughout an organization.
Michele, the managing partner of a law firm in San Francisco, makes it clear that she values her time with her family. She is honest about her desire to attend her children's soccer and softball games and her need for personal time as well. “These are just too important for me to miss,” she says.
Michele does not enforce a double standard, however. What rules apply for her also apply to the other lawyers and employees in her firm. As a result, people can leave work early to attend a special event for their families or can get time off to care for a family member. Based on Michele's strong personal values, it is part of the culture.. She was set in her desire to have it only this way..
The executive director of a non-profit agency, David, posseses a true love for travel and eco-tourism. For relaxation and vacations, he takes his family to places where he is out of contact with his office – often for several days. He understands the significance and importance of this time in his life. He recognizes the need to hone his focus and renew his ambitions.. His team of managers supports David's travels "off the grid" because they are aware that they possess the same freedoms.
Is your organization implementing the practices of high performing organizations? Find out with this free work survey.
