Navigating Work-Life Balance: A Study of School Educators in Challenging Contexts

Work-life balance has become an essential aspect of employees’ fundamental rights provided by the workplace in almost every industry. While WLB is widely recognized for enhancing employees’ productivity, motivation, and consequently, the overall success of the organization, limited research has focused on its role in the educational sector, particularly in Lebanon. In the educational sector, this concept is particularly important since this sector is known for the high amounts of workload during and after school hours. This study explores the impact of work-life balance on job satisfaction among both Lebanese and non-Lebanese teachers in private and public schools in Lebanon, addressing both work-related and non-work-related factors. This study utilized an exploratory case study design to examine factors influencing job satisfaction and work-life balance among 33 teachers selected through purposive sampling from private and public schools in Lebanon. Data was gathered using semi-structured interviews which were tested for validity and reliability. Interviews were conducted face-to-face, via Zoom, and by phone. Thematic analysis was used for data analysis and generated five main themes. In conclusion, the current study contributed to the debate on work-life balance and its relationship with job satisfaction by exploring these dynamics within the unique, under-researched context of Lebanon. The findings underscore that applying a strategic work-life balance program and flexible work policies for school teachers in the workplace will result in a more satisfied, motivated, and productive workforce.