Emma Grede, cofounder of Skims and Good American, recently shared her insights on work-life balance during an episode of the “Diary of a CEO” podcast. Grede, who has played a significant role in building the Kardashian business empire, asserted that it is not the responsibility of employers to manage employees’ work-life balance. She emphasized that individuals must take personal responsibility for finding this balance, implying that those aiming for success often work hard without taking time off.
Her remarks come as a notable contrast to common workplace discussions around achieving a healthy integration of professional and personal life. Grede stated, “Work-life balance is your problem. It isn’t your employer’s responsibility,” a perspective that aligns with that of other influential figures like Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos, who have also expressed skepticism towards the concept.
While Grede does not concern herself with monitoring the presence of employees at their desks, she clarified that her firms operate with a level of flexibility to accommodate personal needs, such as attending to family obligations. Despite advocating for intense dedication—with expectations that working on weekends is part of pursuing an “extraordinary life”—she acknowledges that employees can manage their schedules to fulfill personal responsibilities.
Workplace psychologist Katina Sawyer weighed in on the discussion, pointing out that framing work-life balance as an individual skill may distract from the responsibility employers have in shaping workplace culture and expectations. She believes that this mindset can inadvertently contribute to employee burnout by shifting blame away from organizational practices.
Grede further highlighted that employees should prioritize their compensation and work environment over the guarantee of work-life balance. This perspective may challenge traditional views held by workers seeking a more holistic approach to their professional and personal lives.
As the conversation around work-life balance continues to evolve in our modern work landscape, it accentuates the importance of understanding both personal accountability and employer expectations. Ultimately, thriving in today’s challenging work environment may require a blend of dedication, flexibility, and open dialogue about balancing professional and personal lives.