What does "work-life balance" refer to?

Work-life balance refers to the equilibrium between the time and energy dedicated to work and the time and energy reserved for personal life, which includes family, hobbies, and self-care. The concept emphasizes maintaining a healthy separation between professional responsibilities and personal interests, enabling individuals to find fulfillment in both aspects of their lives. This balance is crucial for reducing stress and preventing burnout while fostering overall well-being and productivity.

In contrast, the other choices represent attitudes or practices that can disrupt this balance. Solely focusing on career development or constantly working overtime may lead to neglecting personal needs and relationships, while prioritizing personal life over professional growth could result in stagnation in one’s career. Each of these approaches lacks the foundational principle of achieving a harmonious balance that work-life integration aims to promote.