False: Social Networking and Mobile Have Obliterated Work-Life Balance




Saw this from @Armano on Twitter: "Social networking and mobile have obliterated the work-life balance." This is a false construct, a proposition built on an erroneous perception of what work-life balance is.


First: Though many of us are wired at work and at home for social media (literally and figuratively) as part of both our work and social life, the great majority of people are not. We are are woven tightly into the fabric of the social networks in both work and personal worlds and are something of a rarified cadre.


Secondly, I don't see an issue of work/life balance with social media. The work/personal overlap allows me the flexibility to be in contact with my family and friends during work hours, but also affords me the opportunity to work or hone my skills during off time if needed. Each of those overlaps, however, is my choice and I get to choose how much and when I do it. 


To me, work life balance means that I am getting enough of each in proportion. There does not have to have a bright line separation with one completely divorced from the other for me to have balance.