This research aimed to investigate the engagement of work-life balance (WLB) crafting in entrepreneurs by examining two predictors, growth pursuit and gender difference (males vs. females). It was...Show moreThis research aimed to investigate the engagement of work-life balance (WLB) crafting in entrepreneurs by examining two predictors, growth pursuit and gender difference (males vs. females). It was hypothesized that growth pursuit would negatively predict WLB crafting among entrepreneurs, and that female entrepreneurs engage less in WLB crafting than male entrepreneurs. One hundred forty-two entrepreneurs participated through Prolific Academic by filling out a cross-sectional and correlational study. The questionnaire consisted of demographic and business information, as well as the scales to measure growth pursuit and WLB crafting. The results extracted from the 2-hierarchical multiple regression analysis indicated that Hypothesis 1 was not supported because growth pursuit positively and significantly predicted WLB crafting engagement. Additionally, Hypothesis 2 was also not supported as the effect was not significant, indicating that there was no remarkable difference between male and female entrepreneurs in their level of engagement in WLB crafting. The findings suggest that entrepreneurs who strive to grow their business also aim to maintain a WLB crafting at the same time so that they can prevent potential losses resulting from stress and burn-out. Moreover, the findings also suggest that gender does not predict the entrepreneur's engagement in WLB crafting.Show less
In 2017, the European Commission, the Council of the EU and the European Parliament came together to agree upon the introduction of a “European Pillar of Social Rights” - the EPSR. It entails a set...Show moreIn 2017, the European Commission, the Council of the EU and the European Parliament came together to agree upon the introduction of a “European Pillar of Social Rights” - the EPSR. It entails a set of 20 social principles already recognized as binding in the EU social acquis, or that are yet to be implemented at EU or the domestic level. A recent deliverable thereof includes the Work-Life Balance Directive adopted in 2019. This thesis seeks to determine whether the EPSR can facilitate equal sharing of care within families and explores alternative approaches to that effect. The thesis argues that whereas the EPSR may have been criticized for merely paying lip service to social Europe, its strengths lie in its flexibility. A non-rigid approach to advancing social rights accommodates a wide diversity of preferences and facilitates enhanced cooperation as well as coordination of policy which both on the long term as well as on the short term may contribute to the advancement of social rights on an EU level, in particular in the field of care sharing in the family.Show less
The main focus of this thesis is the Japanese gendered and masculinized work culture in relation to the creation of a work-life balance (WLB) for employees in large companies. Specific problems...Show moreThe main focus of this thesis is the Japanese gendered and masculinized work culture in relation to the creation of a work-life balance (WLB) for employees in large companies. Specific problems with Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe’s current ‘Womenomics’ program and possible consequences are looked into. It is argued why instead of focusing on certain targets (e.g, 30% of high positions occupied by women), companies have to innovate their current working environments and establish gender equality in order to eventually be able to create a WLB. This thesis also includes a case study that discusses Japanese cosmetics company Shiseido’s views and strategy in creating a WLB for all employees.Show less
This thesis examines how Japan's declining birth rate and women's work-life balance are related, and how the government has responded to this in terms of policies.
