The Work-Life Balance and Its Success Factors Contributing to Increased Performance of Female Academics at a South African Higher Education Institution

Abstract

Maintaining work-life balance is crucial for female academic employees who juggle multiple roles of teaching, research, administrative duties, and community engagement. Despite the double burden of work and personal commitments and conflicting demands, balance helps prevent burnout, supports mental well-being, and enhances performance and long-term career success. In higher education, where work-life balance challenges persist, understanding the factors that support female academics to effectively manage their work and life responsibilities female academics is essential. The paper aims to identify and analyse the work-life balance factors that contribute to the increased performance of female academics at a South African higher education institution. This study employed an exploratory research design and qualitative approach to gain in-depth knowledge of the experiences of the fifteen female academics at a selected institution of higher education in the Limpopo Province of South Africa. Convenience sampling was used to select participants, and data were collected through semi-structured interviews using an interview guide. A gatekeeper’s letter and an ethical clearance certificate obtained from the university’s ethical consideration committee. The data were analysed using thematic analysis and presented with tables. The findings revealed that although flexible work arrangements, support systems and self-care help balance work and personal life responsibilities, effective time management plays a huge role in maintaining work-life balance and contributes positively to increased performance of female academics. This study recommends implementing organisational support, flexible work arrangements and work-life balance policies, as well as women-oriented support to promote work-life balance and enhance performance.