Many Americans have long assumed that career success requires long hours, prioritizing job achievement over personal pursuits, and making short-term sacrifices. At the same time, however, there is evidence that the current work culture is leaving many workers dissatisfied and unhappy. In fact, many of today’s workers are increasingly resistant to working longer hours and prefer to prioritize work-life balance.

Interestingly, a recent study offers evidence that prioritizing enjoyment and a balance between work and life is essential for reducing stress and increasing overall personal happiness, thus supporting the age-old adage that all work and no play make a dull life.

Prioritizing fun and freedom: the study’s findings

Researchers from the University of Essex recently published the results of a revealing study on the prioritization of achievement over enjoyment. Those results found that those who focused more on achievement than fun saw a reduction in their happiness.

At the same time, subjects who focused their attention on freedom and enjoyment reported boosts in overall life satisfaction, sense of well-being, and sleep quality. Study participants who emphasized relaxation and hobbies also saw significantly reduced anxiety and stress.