Balancing It All: Overcoming Emotional Exhaustion from Work-Family Conflicts, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD

Abstract: This research brief examines the issue of work-family conflict and emotional exhaustion experienced by many female employees attempting to balance work and family responsibilities. The brief reviews the key drivers of work-family conflict according to academic literature, such as inflexible workplace cultures, unpredictable schedules, gender biases, and unequal division of labor at home. Practical strategies are then presented for overcoming emotional exhaustion, including promoting flexibility and boundaries, cultivating a respite culture, enhancing paternal support, and setting reasonable expectations. Specific case examples across industries provide pragmatic recommendations for effective implementation. The brief concludes with a call for organizational leaders and researchers to advocate evidence-based solutions that empower female employees' wellbeing and maximize their career potential through genuinely supportive work-life integration practices.