Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is critical to avoiding burnout. But setting boundaries, particularly during time off and vacations, can be tricky as individuals gain professional experience and advance within their companies. This company from India has a solution for the dilemma, and it involves some over-the-top measures.
According to recent numbers, nearly three-fifths of workers in 2021 reported adverse effects from job-related stress. Also, more than half of American workers do not even take advantage of their paid vacation days despite experiencing high-stress levels.
Vacations are a time for workers worldwide to unwind and relax, but frequently, these well-earned breaks are ruined by calls and requests from the office. Dream11, a company with headquarters in Mumbai, is enacting a significant fine just because they strongly dislike "workations."
A Serious Fine for Vacation Spoilers
Following a Bloomberg report, the fantasy sports company has found a solution to this problem by instituting a fine for employees who contact colleagues while on vacation. The penalty of 100,000 rupees (approximately $1,200) ensures that employees can enjoy a quality break without interruption.
Dream11 co-founder Bhavit Sheth told CNBC in an interview that the company requires employees to take at least one week off annually. Employees are "kicked out of the system" during this time and have no access to Slack, emails, or calls. This gives them one week of uninterrupted time and allows the company to determine whether they depend on anyone.
According to Sheth, this system has proven to be effective. The company also believes that providing employees with uninterrupted time allows them to relax, recharge, and return to work, ready to give their all.
This could not be further from the truth, as studies have shown that taking time off can benefit physical and mental health. Research claims that vacationers have less stress, a lower risk of heart disease, a better outlook on life, and more motivation to achieve their goals.
Positive Effects
Dream11's approach is innovative in addressing the issue of vacation interference. It demonstrates how important it is for the company to prioritize its employees' mental health and well-being.
It is also worth noting the additional benefit this policy provides to the business. This excellent system makes employees reconsider interrupting their colleagues on their time off and aware of their reliance on other employees. This could result in a more efficient and long-term workflow in the company.
The penalty that Dream11 imposes on employees who contact coworkers while on vacation is an effective and eye-catching solution to the problem of work interruptions during vacation time.
Private company valuations are under pressure due to rising interest rates, inflation, and the possibility of a global economic slump. How is Dream11 coming to grips with all of this?
Dream11 tells CNBC that it has been green since 2020, and growth trackers say it is one of the few unicorns in India that is booming.
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