Canada’s Work-life imbalance has become an unfortunate reality for many residents in recent years. Statistics clearly show that Canadians are among the HARDEST working populations in the developed world, routinely clocking over 2000 hours per year on the job.
Yet long work hours have not translated into greater financial security or well-being for all. In fact, an alarming number of Canadians report feeling frequent stress and a distressing lack of leisure time, according to the Mental Health Commission of Canada.
And how did we reach this breaking point?
As globalization and economic uncertainty further upend traditional career paths, it seems more pressing than ever to examine the root causes and potential solutions to this societal “achievement.” And the purpose of this article is to explore the causes and impacts of Canada’s work-life imbalance. So, I invite you on this journey of understanding, even if some findings challenge conventional wisdom.
The Current Scenario of Canada’s Work-Life Imbalance
According to a recent study by the OECD, Canada ranked 24th for work-life balance among 40 countries, behind Italy, Denmark, Norway, and even the United States.
A closer look at the statistics reveals that many Canadians, especially recent migrants and young people, are working longer hours, facing more financial stress, and experiencing more burnout than ever before. Some of the facts and figures that illustrate this situation are:
- The average weekly hours worked by full-time employees in Canada in 2023 was 37.5 hours. This was slightly higher than the average in 2021 and 2022 according to Statistics Canada.
- According to the 2022 Portrait of Canadian Society Survey, more than six in ten (63%) Canadians in the lowest household income quintile reported being very concerned about their ability to meet everyday expenses. It was 1.5 times higher than those in the third quintile (42%) and over three times higher than those in the top quintile (19%).
- In the same month, 19% of individuals in the bottom household income quintile reported that they often had to borrow money from friends or relatives or take on additional debt to meet day-to-day expenses.
- A report by Boston Consulting Group published in April 2023 found that workplace burnout was costing Canadian companies billions of dollars and contributing to a national mental health epidemic.
These statistics show that Canada’s work-life imbalance is a common and severe problem for many Canadians and that it has negative implications for their physical and mental health, as well as their productivity and performance.
Canada’s Work-Life Imbalance Impact on Mental Health and Overall Well-Being
Chronic stress caused by overwork and financial insecurity is linked to higher rates of anxiety, depression, and burnout. It can also contribute to obesity, heart disease, and sleep deprivation over time.
Tragically, many only realize the damage once their health reaches a breaking point.
As Sarah, an immigrant from India, recounted, “I was so focused on advancing my career when I first moved here that I neglected my family and hobbies. It wasn’t until I suffered a major panic attack that I realized I needed to make lifestyle changes.” Her story underscores how easily work-life imbalance can spiral out of control.
When people are unable to balance their work and personal life, they may experience a range of adverse outcomes, such as:
- Stress: Canada’s Work-life imbalance can create a chronic state of stress, which can impair the immune system, increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, and affect the mood and cognition of individuals.
- Burnout: Work-life imbalance can lead to burnout, which is a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress. Burnout can cause symptoms such as fatigue, insomnia, irritability, depression, anxiety, and reduced motivation and performance.
- Health problems: Work-life imbalance can also affect the physical health of individuals, as they may neglect their self-care, exercise, nutrition, and medical needs. Work-life imbalance can also increase exposure to occupational hazards, such as injuries, accidents, and infections.
- Family conflicts: Work-life imbalance can create tension and dissatisfaction in personal relationships, as individuals may have less time and energy to spend with their partners, children, and friends. Work-life imbalance can also affect the quality of parenting and the development and well-being of children.
These outcomes show that Canada’s work-life imbalance can have a significant impact on the mental health and overall well-being of individuals and that it can also affect their families and communities.
Reasons Behind High Work Commitment
So what cultural factors have created an environment where overwork and burnout seem acceptable, even expected? Let’s have a look at that.
Reason 1). Economic Pressures
As per a recent study by Employment and Social Development Canada, over 60% of Canadians cited rising costs of living as their top source of stress.
“Housing costs have shot up exponentially in the past decade. Coupled with stagnant wages, it has become increasingly difficult for people to manage both financial responsibilities and personal well-being,” comments Susan Mathison, a career counselor in Toronto.
Jennifer, a 28-year-old software engineer who immigrated to Vancouver 5 years ago, echoes the same sentiment. “I work close to 50-60 hours every week just to afford rent and bills for a one-bedroom apartment. There is barely any time left for myself, my friends, or my hobbies. It is mentally and physically exhausting,” she says.
With average home prices touching $1 million in cities like Vancouver and Toronto, economic pressures have never been more real.
Reason 2). Societal Expectations
However, financial reasons are not the only factors driving this imbalance. Canadians are conditioned from a young age to prioritize work and accomplishments.
“There is an undue importance given to career success here. People derive a large part of their self-worth and identity from their jobs,” observes Dr. Nathan D’Souza, a psychologist based in Ottawa.
Stories of burning out trying to ‘have it all’ or ‘keep up’ are common.
A recent survey found that over 75% of Canadians feel unwilling or unable to take vacation days. Many cite fears of falling behind at work or an ‘always on’ work culture perpetuated by employers and co-workers alike.
Long working hours have sadly become a point of pride rather than a cause for concern.
A Light at the End of the Tunnel? Emerging Options
Given these economic drivers, it is no surprise that Canadians have internalized overwork as a social and cultural norm. But as more begin to recognize the health risks, some are challenging these expectations in creative ways.
– Remote Work Liberates Locations
Digital nomadism continues gaining popularity post-pandemic, according to MBO partners. Their recent survey found over 50% of respondents wish to continue remote work full-time.
For those accepting some lifestyle tradeoffs, opportunities emerge to maximize earnings potential while circumventing sky-high city living expenses. Anecdotal accounts indicate improved quality of life choosing less populated regions.
– Emigration Opens New Possibilities
Similarly, emigration to lower-cost destinations remains an attractive prospect for an improved work-life interface. Immigration levels through pandemic years signal this trend is far from a fleeting fad.
Popular spots include Mexico, Portugal, and parts of Southeast Asia, where dual-income professional salaries can often sustain an upper-middle-class lifestyle. While an emotional undertaking, some research unveils higher standards of living within tighter budgets.
Looking for the Best Emigration Hotspots for Canadians?
- See which locations RFC viewers are checking out the most!
Wrapping Up
This exploration into Canada’s work-life imbalance uncovers deeply entrenched economic and cultural drivers perpetuating unsustainable routines for many in this country. While challenges persist, there are also signs of hope. Remote work and emigration opportunities are allowing many to circumvent sky-high living expenses in major cities and achieve a better work-life balance. If you have any questions about emigration, please feel free to reach out to us!
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