Work-life balance has long been considered the gold standard for managing the demands of professional and personal life. But is it still relevant in today’s highly flexible and hyperconnected world? Kristel Bauer, corporate wellness expert and author of Work-Life Tango: Finding Happiness, Harmony, and Peak Performance Wherever You Work, challenges this outdated model. She advocates for a new approach—work-life integration—which emphasizes harmony and alignment over traditional separation. This article distills Kristel’s insights shared in a recent interview to help managers create healthier, more balanced environments for themselves and their teams.
Move Beyond Balance to Work-Life Harmony
The traditional concept of work-life balance, which aims to evenly distribute time and energy between work and personal life, often falls short. As Kristel explains, life is more fluid than segmented. Instead of imagining separate “work” and “life” boxes, think of them as interconnected parts of a greater whole.
This approach recognizes the varying demands of different life stages and situations. For example, a fulfilling work project might provide the outlet you need during a chaotic period at home. Conversely, personal passions and relationships might provide rejuvenation during demanding work phases.
Build Stronger Relationships—With Yourself and Others
Kristel emphasizes that achieving harmony starts with the self. She proposes we work our way outward in order to build a foundation for leading with empathy and authenticity.
• Self: Strengthening the relationship with yourself through self-reflection and mindfulness.
• Others: Cultivating healthy, respectful relationships with colleagues and team members.
• The World: Connecting with a broader purpose and fostering a sense of community.
Incorporate A Healthy Morning Routine
Kristel suggests using mornings to set the tone for the day. So much of our day is spent in reactive mode, dealing with emails, requests from team members, or navigating emergent issues. A deliberate morning routine creates a sense of control and focus. Even 5-10 minutes of a calming activity can shift your perspective, enabling you to face the day with resilience and positivity.
For instance, Kristel shared how swapping her habit of checking emails first thing in the morning for meditation and yoga transformed her mindset and energy. The particular activities are less important than finding the ones that work for you. Whether it’s meditation, a brief walk, journaling, reading the newspaper, or anything else, do whatever helps set you up for a productive day.
Integrate (Micro) Breaks into the Workday
Contrary to the belief that long hours equal productivity, Kristel highlights the value of micro breaks. Short, intentional pauses can significantly improve focus and reduce stress. Research has shown that even five minutes can drastically impact your mental energy.
Use these moments for activities that promote relaxation—stretching, deep breathing, or a quick walk. Kristel warns against treating chores, email or social media as breaks, as they often fail to provide the mental reset needed.
In addition to the micro breaks, remote and hybrid work have introduced new opportunities for flexibility. Kristel advocates for performance-based management, where the focus shifts from tracking hours to achieving outcomes. This allows team members to attend a midday yoga class or take their dog for an extra long walk to recharge. When employees are trusted to structure their day, they often feel more valued and motivated which fosters engagement and creativity.
It’s time for managers to rethink outdated paradigms and embrace a more holistic view of work and life. By fostering self-awareness, encouraging flexibility and breaks, and nurturing meaningful relationships, managers can create a work environment where harmony and performance thrive.
As you implement these strategies, remember that the journey toward integration is as unique as the individuals on your team. Experiment, adapt, and commit to continuous growth—for yourself and those you lead.
Listen to the entire episode HERE.
Keep up with Kristel Bauer
- Listen to Live Greatly podcast here
- Subscribe to her YouTube channel here
Guest Bonus: FREE Stress Management Checklist
Kristel is providing her Stress Management Checklist for FREE to members of Podcast+.
This PDF includes tips and examples of six approaches Kristel recommends to help you incorporate stress management practices into your life.
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