How does work fit with my life? The relation between flexible work arrangements, work-life balance and recovery from work

Abstract

The right balance between work, personal life and daily recovery is an important determinant of employees’ well-being, health and experience of stress. One of the most important things in many people's lives is their relationship with their family. Work and home life are central aspects of most employees' lives, although there are also other significant aspects of the work-life balance, such as leisure, political and social engagements. The interaction between work and home can be negative, for example, when the time spent working leaves too little time for private life; or it can be positive, for example, when a stimulating job enhances one's general mood and life satisfaction. This chapter reviews the concepts of work-life balance, discusses recovery from work, and presents two key components of flexible work - time flexibility and place flexibility. The review focuses on the antecedents of these concepts and their consequences in terms of health, well-being and job-related outcomes.