Working shorter hours does not necessarily make people happier with their work-life balance, according to research carried out by Randstad UK.
A survey of 2,000 employees revealed that those in the South East and Yorkshire & Humberside were most happy with their work-life balance, with 64% saying they were content, despite those in the South East having one of the longest average working weeks in the UK. Those least happy with their work-life balance were the East of England (51%) and South West (55%) – yet those in the South West have a shorter average working week than most of the UK.
Randstad also compared the findings to the amount people in each region were paid. The results suggest that the amount people earn does not affect how happy they are with their work-life balance. For instance, employees in the North East are paid the least in the country. And while Londoners earn more than any other region, they are not as happy as those in the North West. Workers in Yorkshire & Humberside earn less than the national average, but are happier.
Mark Bull, managing director of Randstad UK, said, “Work-life balance has become something of a national concern in the current economic climate as many people are under increasing pressure in both their professional and personal lives. But this research proves that the key to better balance is not simply to work shorter hours or earn more cash. A more holistic approach is needed to find rewarding work that interests and engages us. It’s not simply about putting up with anything in return for more money or time.”
Author: Jo Robinson
Published On: 7th Aug 2013 - Last modified: 22nd Mar 2017
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