Hybrid work, which involves splitting time between the office and home, has become the preferred choice in the post-pandemic world. But how are couples in New Zealand managing this new work style?
Researchers from the University of Auckland and Massey University, Dr Joanne Mutter and Associate Professor Kaye Thorn, have studied how professional couples are handling this balance. They were particularly interested in finding ways to make working from home easier for couples.
Their research found that people generally fall into two categories when it comes to work-life balance. Some people, known as ‘integrators’, are comfortable mixing their work and personal lives, such as answering work emails at night and running errands during the day. Others, known as ‘separators’, prefer to keep their work and personal lives completely separate, sticking to specific work hours and avoiding work-related tasks outside of these hours.
Understanding which category your partner falls into can help manage the situation better. For instance, if one partner is a separator and the other is an integrator, it can lead to unhealthy habits, like both partners working late into the night.
The study also found that some couples were taking drastic steps like moving houses to have separate workspaces. Others were repurposing rooms or renovating their homes to make them suitable for hybrid work.
For those without a dedicated office, creating new routines, like a walk around the block to signify the end of the workday, can help. Turning off from work was another challenge that couples faced. Some found it helpful to make a to-do list for the next day or have an ‘end-of-workday’ catch-up while preparing dinner.
The researchers also discovered that if one partner had a more flexible role, they often took on more household responsibilities, which ironically resulted in less flexibility.
Companies can support their employees by fostering a culture that accommodates diverse work styles. For instance, while some companies may enforce a ‘no emails after hours’ policy thinking it helps everyone disconnect, it may not suit those who prefer to respond to emails at their own convenience.
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