Women’s 11 Greatest Struggles with Work-Life Balance in 2024

Women have long fought to claim their rightful place in the workforce—equal access to work, professional advancement, and the ever-elusive work-life balance.

As a result of these efforts, more women are contributing significantly to the global economy, achieving impressive results and making an impact in business, politics, and entrepreneurship. Yet, the struggle to create a harmonious balance between two critical aspects of their lives—career and personal well-being—remains a significant challenge.

Why Work-Life Balance Is Crucial for Women

Why is work-life balance so important for professional women today? While societal and biological factors play a role, most women aspire to find the perfect blend of a thriving career and a fulfilling personal life. This balance is not just a desire—it's a necessity for experiencing a well-rounded, meaningful life.

In 2024, the conversation around work-life balance has gained even more attention as women increasingly enter the business world, determined to succeed in both career and personal realms. However, this balance remains difficult for many to achieve.

The Ongoing Work-Life Balance Struggle

Despite progress, achieving the ideal solution for work-life balance is a challenge for millions of women who face a variety of daily struggles. These issues not only affect individual women but also have a ripple effect across society, impacting overall workplace productivity and the quality of family life. Addressing these struggles can lead to broader societal awareness and, ultimately, better solutions for the future.

Women’s 11 Greatest Work-Life Balance Struggles in 2024

Based on my work with hundreds of women during coaching sessions, here are the 11 most common struggles women face today in trying to achieve a viable work-life balance.

1. Household Chores

Many women continue to shoulder most household responsibilities, even while maintaining demanding careers. The pressure to manage both professional and domestic duties can leave women feeling overwhelmed and constantly trying to find the best ways to balance their obligations.

2. Mom-Work Balance and Guilt

For working mothers, the balance between career and motherhood is a major source of stress. Many women experience guilt for not spending enough time with their children due to work commitments, even as they strive for professional success.

3. Unrealistic Expectations for Professional Performance

Many women feel an immense pressure to overachieve at work, whether it stems from personal ambition or societal expectations. Gender-biased stereotypes often compel women to prove themselves more capable than their male counterparts, resulting in added stress and potential burnout.

4. Being Acknowledged for Expertise (Especially Among Male Peers)

Women frequently report working harder to gain the respect of male colleagues in male-dominated industries. Despite their expertise and dedication, they often struggle for equal recognition and appreciation.

5. Lack of Support from Partners/Spouses

A lack of empathy, understanding, or support from a partner can significantly hinder a woman’s ability to balance work and home life. Many women find themselves handling all responsibilities without the support they need, leading to exhaustion and resentment.

6. Neglecting Self-Care

The demands of both professional and personal life often force women to sacrifice self-care. This leads to physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion, ultimately impacting their well-being and performance in all areas of life.

7. Risk of Becoming a Workaholic

The desire to excel can sometimes push women into overwork, leading to the development of workaholic tendencies. This pattern not only harms personal relationships but also reduces the overall quality of life.

8. Setting Boundaries

Women often find it difficult to say no, fearing negative repercussions for their careers. The pressure to accept additional responsibilities can lead to burnout and compromised personal well-being if boundaries are not set.

9. Time Management and Prioritization

Proper time management and the ability to prioritize tasks are essential for success. However, managing professional responsibilities while balancing personal life can feel like a never-ending juggling act. The challenge lies in determining which tasks take priority and how to allocate time efficiently.

10. Difficulty Asking for Help

Asking for help is often associated with vulnerability, and women may feel uncomfortable seeking support. Many women fear being perceived as weak or incapable, which prevents them from delegating tasks and seeking the assistance they need to manage their workloads.

11. Societal Expectations About Women Staying at Home

Despite progress, societal stereotypes that suggest women should stay at home still persist. These outdated views create external pressure, contributing to a bias that affects workplace dynamics and women’s access to career opportunities.

Conclusion: Navigating Work-Life Balance in 2024

Across the globe, women are making remarkable strides in the workforce, yet the struggle to balance career, family, and personal well-being remains a central challenge. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, finding a balance that allows for both professional success and personal fulfillment is crucial for leading a thriving, meaningful life.

By addressing these 11 key struggles, professional women can begin to regain control of their time, energy, and well-being, fostering a better future for themselves and future generations. To learn more about the challenges women face in today’s workforce, watch my video here.