(posted on behalf of @KANAN ASIF, PhD representative)
Just as entrepreneurs face the exploration–exploitation dilemma, academicians must also balance the competing demands of work and life. But achieving that balance is easier said than done. We operate in a boundaryless field. Unlike other professions with tangible deliverables—such as building a two-story, 1,000 sq. ft. home—academicians have the liberty to invest unlimited time and energy into something as small as a conceptual diagram.
We can dig intellectual holes as deep and wide as time permits. Our projects rarely conclude because there is nothing left to do; rather, we stop when we are too exhausted to make further marginal improvements, even though more could always be done. Because of this boundaryless nature of academic work, the line between work and life often blurs, leading many academicians to yearn for the elusive goal of work–life balance.
Artificial Boundaries Don’t Work for Everyone
Some people strongly believe that it is possible to create strict boundaries—separating work from life and enjoying both, while minimizing overlap. For others, this notion feels like a myth, because the very idea of "work–life balance" implies that work exists outside of life.
For many of us, work is not just a component of life—it is central to our identity, sense of purpose, and life satisfaction. For some, it is the most important part of life, shaping our goals, values, and even how we define success.
Whether work–life balance in academia is a myth or an attainable goal, we must find a way to thrive—as both academicians and human beings. Yet the pursuit of balance is often exhausting. Like riding a bicycle, we must keep moving forward, steering carefully to avoid veering too far in either direction. But constant self-correction can be tiring, and giving in to the gravitational pull of either extreme—work or life—can be even more detrimental.
Perhaps a better metaphor is juggling. Instead of balancing two opposing forces, we are switching between multiple responsibilities, ensuring that each stays aloft. In this model, balance is not static—it’s dynamic, responsive, and adaptive.
So, how do we achieve a fulfilling life both inside and outside academia?
1. Accept that Boundaries May Blur—and That’s Okay
Many of us have tried setting strict boundaries: working during designated hours and reserving personal time for family or self-care. Sometimes it works; often, it doesn’t.
Refraining from work during "off hours" can lead to limited time for quality output, which only increases work-related stress. This, in turn, can make it harder to enjoy personal life when you’re constantly aware of looming deadlines. Conversely, when work consumes all your energy, there’s little left for meaningful personal engagement. At other times, personal demands stretch you beyond the limits of a 24-hour day, leaving no energy for work.
In short, personal and professional commitments constantly intrude upon each other, and rigid boundaries often fail to hold. Instead of resisting this reality, we should embrace a more flexible mindset.
2. Make Space for a “Third Ball”: The Grey Zone
Although experts often emphasize the "power of focus" and warn against multitasking, the academic life—especially for Ph.D. students—makes multitasking almost inevitable. My take is slightly different from the traditional wisdom: instead of avoiding multitasking altogether, we should view it as a functional part of academic life.
Of course, we can't and shouldn't multitask all the time. But we also shouldn’t expect complete separation between work and life. Between the "work ball" and the "life ball," there is often a third ball—the grey-zone ball. This is where we allow small tasks (e.g., replying to brief emails, planning ahead, scheduling appointments) to spill into personal time—and vice versa—without guilt or resistance.
That said, grey-zone multitasking must be intentional and situational. We shouldn't always be juggling the third ball—but acknowledging its presence can help us accept and even embrace those inevitable moments when boundaries blur. Instead of seeing these moments as failures, we can treat them as opportunities for harmony.
3. The Answer Is “No” Unless It’s a Clear “Yes”
Many of us are in the habit of saying yes—yes to new hobbies, opportunities, collaborations, and service roles. I've fallen into this trap myself. While saying yes can open doors, overcommitting can leave us overwhelmed and underproductive.
At some point, the default answer must become “no”—unless an opportunity passes a high threshold of certainty (e.g., a 95% confidence level). Every yes comes at the cost of something else. Saying yes too often means saying no to what truly matters. Be selective. Make “no” your default, unless it’s a wholehearted, deliberate yes.
4. Don’t Say Yes Without Estimating the Time Required
I recently read a book chapter that emphasized how poorly many of us estimate time. We often commit to tasks assuming they’ll take “a couple of hours,” only to discover that they stretch on and disrupt our priorities.
The solution? Develop the habit of explicitly estimating time for every new commitment. Break down each activity into its components and calculate the true time cost. If you're someone who consistently underestimates, build in a buffer.
Sometimes, you may feel compelled to say yes without a full understanding of the time involved. In such cases, apply a real-options mindset: say yes conditionally, with the understanding that you’ll fully commit only after assessing the full scope.
Final Thoughts
We all struggle with work–life balance. It’s not just a challenge—it’s an ongoing paradox. Maintaining rigid boundaries is not always realistic. But by dedicating time for blurred boundaries, making “no” your default, and diligently estimating time commitments, we can take meaningful steps toward a more fulfilling academic and personal life.
I hope this article finds its intended readers in the right time to alleviate some of the struggles they face.