For many years, respondents of numerous studies have indicated that they would like to seek greater balance in life and work (Levey:1998). According to Levey, some of the main reasons mentioned for the imbalance (order of priority).
- Debt,
- Job insecurity.
- Lack of flexibility regarding work schedules, and
- Inertia of personal habit.
In the 2000, in response to the growing disdain for chaos, constant change and uncertainties that life presents, Levey has spotted the following trends.
Down shifter. This group represents American who have 'abandoned' their careers to pursue a life of greater purpose or spiritual focus. Seventy-two percent of this market wish to 'simplify their lives' while 28% have made life changes resulting in a drop in income. Most were in the 40 to 49 age group.
Soul shifter. Researchers have found that 10% of the American population (some say the figure is as high as 44 million) are striving to be less ego-centered, more ecologically and spiritually conscious.
Friend shifter. (My addition). Researchers tell us it is important to have at least one close friend. Further, there is strong evidence that cancer survivors and patients who have had heart attacks fare better when a person phones them at least once per day. Further, the Mayo Clinic has written that support networks can be used to fight against depression, anxiety.
Other researchers seem to bare these trends out. Consider a Merck Poll which asked participants to list three things that 'will bring their lives more into balance.' Here are the results.
- Spending more time with family and friends.
- Reducing stress.
- Doing more to make a difference in their community.
More will be written about this topic tonight if it is of interest to you.
Literary Sources
Levey, Joel and Levey, Michelle. Living in Balance. Conari Press, Berkeley, CA 1998, 333 pages.
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