Why Work-life Blend Is the New Work-life Balance
The conversation around work-life balance needs a shift. If we want to sustainably increase the quality of our lives, we must move from seeking balance to creating a blend.
A study published in the American Sociological Review found that 7 out of 10 US workers struggle with work-life balance. And it is a struggle — especially when we frame it as a constant tug-of-war.
The very term work-life balance implies that there’s some perfect formula... a fixed ratio of time between work and life that leads to fulfilment. But the truth is, most high performers — and most real parents — aren’t working that way anymore.
This morning, I started with my usual routine: a quick gratitude entry in my Five Minute Journal, a bit of movement, a shower, then getting myself and the kids ready. We visited a high school for my eldest. Then I dropped both children off at school and headed to work.
At work, I juggled emails, a presentation, and a brochure — all while prepping for a dinner party we’re hosting in two days. After pick-up and family dinner (yes, the dishes are still in the sink), I had bedtime cuddles with the boys... and now, I’m back at my computer writing this article and tying up loose ends before I crawl into bed beside my husband.
There was no "this is work time" and "this is family time" — it was a blend.
Think of work-life blend like making a smoothie.
Some days have more banana, others more berries. There's usually some milk or base ingredient. The mix changes depending on what you’ve got — and some days taste better than others. Over time, you learn the proportions that regularly make the mix nourishing, satisfying, and energising.
How to Practise Work-life Blend: FEE
Flexibility – Just like no one ingredient makes a good smoothie, no one area of life defines your quality of life. Move away from either-or thinking (work or family, health or success) and start thinking in ANDs. Work and family. Work and health. When you believe both can coexist, you're better equipped to find creative solutions that support the life you want.
Expectations – Instead of waking up with high expectations for how a day should go…and then feeling defeated when it doesn’t.. work-life blend invites you to adapt. Some days are child-heavy, like when someone is sick. Some days demand more from work. Others might lean toward health or rest. Most are a mix. That’s real life... and it’s okay.
Energy – If you’re always searching for less work and more time for your passion, you may be asking the wrong question. People who thrive in work-life blend don’t necessarily work fewer hours... they do more of what energises them. Take Matt, an IT leader. While he now manages a team, he occasionally dips back into technical work — not because he has to, but because it lights him up. That energy fuels the rest of his day — at work and at home.
So here’s your reflection:
What does your smoothie look like right now?
What’s one ingredient you could tweak to make your daily life taste better?
If you're ready to reimagine your daily routine and stop chasing balance, check out the Stressed to Best Parent Method to explore what energises you and create a blend that works for your unique family and life.