Is Work-Life Balance No Longer Possible? Shocking Research in Norway
The concept of work-life balance is losing its meaning in the realities of today's job market. This is the conclusion of a new master's thesis prepared at Høyskolen Kristiania. Norwegian leaders point out that the boundaries between professional and private life are becoming increasingly blurred. In their opinion, a more appropriate term is "work-life harmony."
Work and private life are increasingly overlapping.
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The study was conducted in the spring of 2025 and was recognized as the best master's thesis at the university. The authors analyzed the experiences of managers operating in a digital work environment.
Respondents emphasized that the classic understanding of balance no longer reflects everyday practice. Work and private life are increasingly forming a single, interconnected whole.
Respondents emphasized that the classic understanding of balance no longer reflects everyday practice. Work and private life are increasingly forming a single, interconnected whole.
Work Without Clear Boundaries
Study participants pointed out the impact of technology and constant availability. Work flexibility goes hand in hand with the expectation of being always reachable.
Completely disconnecting from professional duties is often difficult to achieve. The boundaries between work time and free time are becoming increasingly blurred.
Completely disconnecting from professional duties is often difficult to achieve. The boundaries between work time and free time are becoming increasingly blurred.
Completely disconnecting from work is difficult to achieve.Photo: fotolia.com
Meaning and Flexibility Instead of Balance
Leaders participating in the study indicated that a sense of meaning in their work is crucial. This is what enables them to function under prolonged pressure. The ability to independently manage time and workplace is also important. Flexibility is seen as a condition for maintaining harmony in everyday life.
The study was based on two focus groups and six in-depth interviews with 15 leaders from the public and private sectors. The authors highlight the need to change the language used to describe modern professional life. The issue is increasingly appearing in the context of management, work organization, and discussions about quality of life.
The study was based on two focus groups and six in-depth interviews with 15 leaders from the public and private sectors. The authors highlight the need to change the language used to describe modern professional life. The issue is increasingly appearing in the context of management, work organization, and discussions about quality of life.
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