Welcome, my name is Doug Truppe, and I am an artist representative for commercial photographers and directors in the global market. Our mission is to empower, elevate and foster a sense of community for those employed in the advertising industry. Focusing on mental health, our hope is to provide a forum and backdrop to discuss and share the challenges our industry is facing in a fast paced ever changing global economy. Concentrating on one’s well-being with the expertise of a mental health practitioner, Gabriel Most LCSW, RN, come join us as we explore and discuss managing mental health in the advertising industry. Ultimately, we are here to provide helpful resources and offer a friendly voice in challenging times
What’s Going on with the Work-Life Balance
Please join us as we address various issues and mental health challenges on a weekly basis creating a forum for communication and solutions with experts in advertising and mental health. In this week’s topic, “Where Is Our Work-Life Balance?” Doug Truppe and Gabriel Most, LCSW RN explore the dynamics and challenges unemployment can create in the context of romantic unions and how to address and manage job loss as a couple.
Achieving work-life balance can be challenging for many Americans due to several factors.
1. The Culture in the Workplace.
In creative fields, there's often a culture of long hours and heavy workloads, driven by job insecurity during uncertain times.
2. Economic Pressures and Career Advancement.
The cost of living and financial responsibilities often push people to work more just to keep up, while career ambitions can lead to prioritize work over personal time.
3. Technology and Limited Leave Policies.
The rise of remote work and digital communications has led to blurred boundaries between work and personal life making it harder to create and maintain time for family and friends. In the U.S., fewer vacation days and parental leave compared to other countries make stepping away from work even more challenging.
The psychological implications of poor work-life balance can be significant for both individuals and families.
1. Stress, Burnout and Mental Health Issues.
Lack of time for oneself, family and friends can strain relationships and lead to isolation, increasing the risk of anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns leading to burnout, stress and poor quality of life.
2. Quality of Life and Family.
Lack of time for loved ones can strain relationships and cause isolation, while neglecting personal interests can decrease fulfillment and happiness.
3. Physical Health Problems.
Eventually, stress and fatigue can decrease productivity and job satisfaction, and a poor work life balance may lead to physical health issues.
Deliberate actions and strategies to achieve work-life balance with your employer.
1. Set Boundaries, Communicate and Prioritize Tasks.
Discuss needs and flexibility, like remote work,, with your employer.
Focus on high-impact tasks for efficient workload management. Define and adhere to work hours.
2. Take Breaks and Work Smarter Not Harder.
Utilize breaks and vacation days to recharge.
Use Technology Wisely: Limit after-hours communication and disable work notifications while on personal time if possible.
Deliberate actions and strategies to achieve work-life balance with your family and friends.
1. Quality Time and Setting Expectations.
Schedule regular activities and commitments with your family and friends making sure to communicate your availability to manage disappointments and unforeseen work-related issues.
2. Be Present and Engage in Self-care.
Focus on family and friends during personal time by disconnecting from work.
Prioritize self-care and well-being like physical activity to maintain energy and resilience. Step away from social media as part of your recharge.
Balancing these aspects requires ongoing effort and adjustments as circumstances change. How are you managing your life work balance? We’d love to hear from you .
Gabriel Most, LCSW RN , www.GMostTherapy.com
Contact me to share your stories: hello@dougtruppe.com
