ISSN: 2578-5095
Authors: Joshi R, Birdi AK and Panchal S*
The purpose of the present study was to examine the lived experiences and coping strategies of Female Managers and Executives in corporate Culture while working from home during Pandemic. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 25 women who were Middle level executives and Managers working for various branches of Service Industry ranging from Insurance sector, Banking Sector, Finance and Investment sector etc. A phenomenological methodology was used to uncover the lived experiences of these women while working from home, looking after families that included Spouse, Children and Elderly. These women were chasing deadlines, attending online meetings simultaneously fixing meals, ensuring children attend online classes and looking after other family members. The work shift extended till late at night with little or no help in household chores. Results yielded that these women were extremely stressed; the work- life balance went for toss. Dual role perfectionism expected by them both from others as well as self resulted in stress, anxiety, physical and mental fatigue, adverse effect on physical and mental health as well as lowering of self- efficacy and self-esteem. Coping strategies included religion and spirituality, delegation of work and shedding unrealistic expectations, support networks, mentorship, and selfcare. Directions for future research, clinical and theoretical implications of experiences of results of unrealistic expectations, lack of work -life balance are being discussed.
Keywords: Work-Life Balance; Stress; Anxiety; Unrealistic Expectations; Self-Care
