Work-Life Balance: Leading by Example for a Thriving Team
Your team watches how you manage your own work-life balance, and they often follow suit. Want a high-performing, motivated, and engaged team? Start by walking the talk on work-life balance.
Let’s dive into how leading by example in this area can transform your company culture and boost productivity.
Your Team Is Watching—Every Step You Take
It’s no secret that people tend to mimic the behaviors of those in leadership. Whether it’s long hours, constant availability, or a lack of boundaries between personal and professional time, your team takes cues from how you operate. A survey by Deloitte found that over 77% of employees experience burnout, and lack of leadership attention to balance is a major factor.
If you’re checking emails at midnight or scheduling early morning meetings without considering your team’s personal commitments, don’t be surprised when they start to adopt the same habits. The cost? Burnout, low morale, and eventually, turnover. On the flip side, when leaders model balance, employees feel empowered to prioritize their own well-being, leading to greater engagement and long-term productivity.
What Leading by Example Looks Like
We’re not talking about slashing hours or mandating a strict 9-to-5. The key is showing your team how to balance priorities without sacrificing performance. Here’s how to lead by example:
- Set Boundaries—And Stick to Them
Respect your own work hours and honor personal time. Let your team know when you’re unavailable and encourage them to do the same. A healthy separation between work and personal life starts at the top. - Take Time Off (and Be Vocal About It)
CEOs are notorious for skipping vacations or working during them. The message this sends? That time off is a luxury, not a necessity. Take your vacations, share with the team when you’re stepping away, and fully disconnect. When your team sees you unplugging, they feel permission to do the same. - Emphasize Output, Not Hours
Productivity isn’t measured by how many hours are spent at a desk. Instead, focus on outcomes and results. When your team knows that what matters is their contribution—not clocking extra hours—they’re more likely to work efficiently and take time for themselves when needed. - Encourage Flexibility
Give employees the autonomy to work in a way that suits their personal lives. Whether it’s flexible hours or remote work options, trust them to manage their time while hitting goals. Flexibility breeds loyalty and trust.
The Ripple Effect on Your Organization
When you prioritize work-life balance as a leader, you create a ripple effect that benefits everyone. Employees who feel supported are more likely to stick around, collaborate better, and deliver higher-quality work. Companies that champion work-life balance see a marked improvement in retention and employee satisfaction, leading to a stronger overall culture.
It’s also worth mentioning that promoting balance doesn’t just serve your team—it benefits you, too. Adam Grant’s research shows that leaders who take time for themselves are more creative, make better decisions, and foster a culture of innovation. In short, when you lead with balance, you unlock the potential for long-term success—not only for your company but for yourself as well.
Real-Life Examples of Leadership in Balance
There are plenty of CEOs who understand the value of balance. Take Bill Gates, who famously schedules “think weeks” where he retreats from daily operations to focus on big-picture ideas. Gates’ example shows that taking time away can be essential for strategic thinking and innovation.
Or look at Arianna Huffington, founder of The Huffington Post, who collapsed from exhaustion and went on to become an advocate for well-being in the workplace. She now runs Thrive Global, a company dedicated to promoting mental health and wellness in business environments, proving that well-rested leaders make better decisions.
These leaders understand the importance of taking time for themselves, and they’ve set an example for their teams to follow.
Practical Tips to Implement Balance Today
Ready to lead by example? Here are a few practical steps to get started today:
- Block time for personal activities just like you would for a meeting. Whether it’s a workout, family time, or a hobby, make it non-negotiable.
- Communicate your boundaries clearly. Let your team know your preferred hours of availability and encourage them to share theirs.
- Hold regular check-ins with your team to discuss workloads and prevent burnout. Open the conversation about work-life balance and listen to their needs.
- Model taking breaks throughout the day. Even stepping away from the desk for a quick walk or a 15-minute recharge can set a powerful example.
Conclusion: Balance Starts with You
Work-life balance is not a luxury—it’s a necessity for high performance, creativity, and sustainable growth. As a leader, it’s your responsibility to model that balance. By setting an example, you’ll cultivate a workplace where people are not only more engaged and productive but also happier and healthier.
Your team is watching—so show them what a balanced, thriving life looks like.
