Seeta Kumari Marriwada, Branch Executive director at Platform 65 Vijawada Shares Insights on Achieving Equilibrium in a Demanding Industry
In the high-pressure environment of the hospitality sector, achieving a work-life balance is particularly challenging, especially for women. Seeta Kumari Marriwada, a seasoned Branch Executive at Platform 65 in Vijayawada, delves into the strategies that empower women to maintain their professional drive while managing personal lives effectively. This balance is not just beneficial for individual well-being but also crucial for sustaining productivity and job satisfaction in the long term.
In the dynamic realm of hospitality, women confront a unique blend of professional ambitions and personal responsibilities, necessitating a delicate balance amidst societal expectations, cultural norms, and industry demands. Achieving work-life equilibrium is vital for women in hospitality, with proactive measures and supportive organisational cultures playing pivotal roles in fostering success and fulfilment.
Numerous studies highlight the profound impact of work-life balance on individual satisfaction and organisational effectiveness, particularly in an industry characterised by long hours, irregular shifts, and evolving demands. However, this journey towards equilibrium isn’t insurmountable. It requires redefined boundaries, self-care practices, and robust support networks.
The Need for Work-Life Balance:
Cultural and gender challenges significantly influence women’s pursuit of work-life balance in hospitality. The unbalanced state between life and work poses a major obstacle to career development, often forcing sacrifices that impact family life adversely.
In the hospitality sector, women grapple with extended work hours, shift duties, and customer preferences, making it arduous to maintain a healthy balance. While setting boundaries and prioritising self-care are crucial, organisations can play a pivotal role by introducing supportive practices that facilitate work-life balance, benefiting both employees and the organisation.
Clarify and Condense:
The significance of setting boundaries cannot be overstated. By clearly defining work hours and communicating them effectively, women can prevent burnout and ensure time for personal commitments. Asserting one’s worth and setting boundaries are essential steps towards maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Expand on Organisational Support:
Organisational support is essential for women in hospitality to achieve work-life balance. Companies can implement measures such as flexible scheduling, telecommuting options, and wellness programs tailored to employees’ needs. By prioritising employee well-being, organisations can foster a culture that values work-life balance and enhances overall productivity.
Address Intersectionality:
Acknowledging the intersectionality of work-life balance challenges is crucial. Factors such as race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and caregiving responsibilities shape women’s experiences differently. Recognising and addressing these intersecting factors is essential for creating inclusive solutions that cater to the diverse needs of women in hospitality.
Include a Call to Action:
As we navigate the complexities of work-life balance in hospitality, it’s imperative to take proactive steps towards change. Whether by advocating for inclusive policies, joining support networks, or sharing experiences, each of us can contribute to creating a more supportive and equitable environment. Together, let’s strive to empower women in hospitality to achieve work-life balance and thrive in both their professional and personal lives.
Delegating Tasks:
Delegating tasks is another effective strategy for managing workload and freeing up time for other priorities. Whether at work or home, learning to delegate responsibilities can prevent overwhelm and ensure efficient completion of essential duties. In the hospitality industry, where long hours and high-pressure environments are common, delegating tasks can help women maintain a healthier work-life balance. Empowering team members to take on more responsibilities can lead to a more engaged workforce and provide opportunities for personal growth.
Learn to Say No:
Learning to say no is crucial for managing workload and reducing stress levels. Saying no to additional responsibilities or tasks that do not align with personal priorities is essential for maintaining work-life balance. By prioritising existing commitments and setting clear boundaries, women can focus on what truly matters to them and avoid burnout.
Building a Strong Support Network:
A strong support network is invaluable for women in hospitality. Surrounding oneself with understanding friends, family, and colleagues who appreciate the demands of the job can provide crucial emotional support and encouragement. Colleagues and industry contacts within a support network can also offer valuable networking opportunities, potentially leading to career advancement or new job opportunities.
In conclusion, achieving work-life balance in hospitality requires a multifaceted approach involving boundary setting, organisational support, delegation, and nurturing a strong support network. By addressing intersectional challenges and taking proactive steps towards change, women can thrive in both their professional and personal lives.
Achieving work-life balance in the hospitality industry is a dynamic, ongoing process that requires constant attention and adaptation. For women like Seeta Kumari Marriwada, it involves a blend of personal resilience and institutional support. As the industry continues to evolve, fostering environments that support such balance will be key to retaining top talent and ensuring that women not only enter the hospitality field but also thrive within it. With concerted efforts from both individuals and organizations, the future of hospitality can be as diverse as it is successful.
