As small business owners head into the holiday season, the importance of encouraging work-life balance amongst employees and in their own lives is strong. The quarterly American Express Small Business Monitor reveals more than three quarters (78 per cent) of small business owners surveyed leverage the holiday season to re-establish balance for themselves and their employees. A press release noted that leading up to December, the majority (73 per cent) are more flexible allowing employees the opportunity to participate in seasonal activities. Almost half (40 per cent) close down entirely until the New Year, giving employees time off.
Athena Varmazis, vice-president and general manger of Small Business Services with American Express Canada stated in the release that small business owners are not only recognizing the need for work-life balance for themselves, but also for their employees, and are using the holiday season as an opportunity for everyone involved in their businesses to reset.
Despite work-life balance being an important issue for small business owners, they continue to struggle with managing their desire to be available at all times. While the majority (63 per cent) said they have a healthy balance, more than half (58 per cent) feel guilty when they take time off. Additionally, 63 per cent report checking their phone at least once or twice a day when on a vacation of more than a couple of days. This can also affect their health. Nearly half (48 per cent) report having suffered from work-related stress in the past year to the point it has impacted other areas of their lives.
