How do you find balance between your work life and your personal life?
A common hot topic among rail workers is how difficult it can be to maintain a work-life balance. However, the August 2023 agreement between BNSF and the BLET, dubbed the quality of life agreement, is purported to address many of those issues. Also, BNSF has dedicated several benefits aimed at improving the work-life balance of their employees through a wide range of programs designed to support them and their families. But before they make a hiring decision, they need assurances you already dedicate equal or greater efforts to striking that balance. How you answer this question could provide insights into whether you bring your personal issues or commitments to work with you, or whether you allow the stress and responsibilities of your job to impact your personal life.
On BNSF's website, there's a great amount of information regarding the quality of life benefits that they offer their employees. However, some of those benefits vary depending on whether the position is a union job, and falls under the bargained agreement. "Life is more than just work! BNSF understands the importance of work/life balance and offers careers with the flexibility to meet life's demands. We all experience personal challenges at one time or another. Therefore, we offer a wide range of programs to enhance and support you and your family. Vacation, Sick Days and Paid Holidays, Employee Assistance Program.
The BNSF Employee Assistance Program helps employees and family members identify and resolve personal and workplace concerns to enhance quality of life, performance and safety [and] will assist you in mapping a path through the challenges you face. Stress management, depression and anxiety, improving personal and work relationships, alcohol and substance abuse, grief and loss, thriving through change, telephonic legal and financial consultations."
"I love what it says on the BNSF website, that life is more than just work. Couldn't agree more. I don't get stressed out too easily. I guess because I have strong time management skills, and am super organized. Also, I'm kind of an adventurous spirit, and I enjoy going for long hikes and exploring the great outdoors. Nothing is more rejuvenating than getting out in nature, away from all the noise, and just decompressing. For me, that starts with preparing for my hike. Lining up all my backpacking gear, even if it is a day hike. Like I said, I'm super organized. So, besides that, I do a lot of yoga, and just take care of all of my personal needs in my personal time, prepare for my work week on the weekend, and dedicate time for nothing at all. So, all around, I would say that all aspects of my life are pretty balanced."
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