Could your hobbies help you succeed in your career?
In addition to being a source of pleasure, some recreational activities can help you acquire valuable skills for the world of work.
PARIS: What if your hobbies could help you progress in your career? That’s the idea behind a study recently published in the journal Organisation Science.
The concept of “leisure-work synergising”
It highlights the concept of “leisure-work synergising,” a strategy that involves subtly integrating professional development into leisure activities.
This approach enables employees to distance themselves from their work, while performing better professionally.
Far from being a mere distraction, these moments enable employees to take a step back from their job while also becoming more professionally adept.
A prime example: Dan Schulman
The former PayPal CEO claims that his intensive martial arts practice taught him, far more effectively than any management course, to keep moving, stay calm in times of crisis and avoid unnecessary confrontations with the competition.
Balancing work and hobbies
One of the great advantages of this method is that it allows you to learn new skills without feeling like you’re sacrificing your free time.
The study’s authors, Kate Zipay, professor at Purdue University, and Jessica Rodell, professor at the University of Georgia, found proof of this by analysing the habits of workers who devote a significant proportion of their time to recreational activities.
“We found that employees who intentionally integrate professional growth into their free time – like listening to leadership podcasts, watching TED Talks or reading engaging business books – report feeling more confident, motivated and capable at work,” explains Kate Zipay in a release.
Individual preferences matter
However, this approach needs to be adapted to individual preferences. Some people make a point of pursuing hobbies that have no connection with their work.
“Employees who prefer a clear separation between work and personal life might struggle with this approach, highlighting the importance of tailoring the practice to individual preferences,” points out Zipay. Without this downtime, the risk of overwork and mental fatigue is very real.
The benefits of leisure-work synergising
For others, on the contrary, combining leisure and professional growth enriches their moments of relaxation while promoting their career development.
“This isn’t about making your free time feel like work. It’s about leveraging activities you already love in a way that fuels your professional growth. Done right, it’s a game-changer for employees and employers alike,” concludes Zipay.
Conclusion
Much more than just a trend, “leisure-work synergising” is emerging as a promising alternative, offering employees an opportunity to learn and develop while enjoying free time.
FAQs
Q: What is leisure-work synergising?
A: Leisure-work synergising is a strategy that involves subtly integrating professional development into leisure activities, enabling employees to distance themselves from their work while performing better professionally.
Q: What are some examples of leisure-work synergising?
A: Examples include listening to leadership podcasts, watching TED Talks, or reading engaging business books during leisure time.
Q: Is leisure-work synergising suitable for everyone?
A: No, this approach needs to be adapted to individual preferences. Some people may prefer a clear separation between work and personal life, while others may benefit from combining leisure and professional growth.
Q: What are the benefits of leisure-work synergising?
A: It can help employees feel more confident, motivated, and capable at work, and can be a game-changer for employees and employers alike.