From CNBC · Brooke Black, Contributor · · 1m 40s
American in Denmark: Work-Life Balance Lessons
A workaholic American in Denmark learns that rest doesn't hurt productivity after years of resisting it.
In brief
A workaholic American in Denmark learns that rest doesn't hurt productivity after years of resisting it. Brooke Black, a former U.S. music industry professional, discovered that taking vacation days and embracing hygge improved her work-life balance in Denmark despite initial resistance. Originally reported by CNBC.
Work-Life Balance Dream
I moved to Denmark in 2020 hoping for better work-life balance but doubled down on workaholism instead.
U.S. Work Habits Clash
I worked 24/7 in New York and Los Angeles but struggled with Danish colleagues who eat together at 11:30 a.m. and avoid phone booths.
Vacation Days Hoarded
I started by hoarding vacation days only to lose them when they didn't carry over to the next year.
Summer Shutdown Struggle
I worked through summer shutdown to be 'a hero' but couldn't get anything done because everyone was on vacation.
Hygge Transformation
After a week at my mother-in-law's summer house, I felt lighter and had creative bursts without guilt.
Denmark's Work Culture
Denmark has 37-hour work weeks, 25 days of paid vacation, and requires three consecutive weeks of paid time off during May to September.
Hygge's Real Impact
I finally learned that prioritizing rest doesn't compromise my drive, energy or ambition after years of self-sabotage.
The Path Forward
I'm working on balancing work and family life after spending only one week with my family of four due to side hustles.
Hygge's Lesson
The Danish art of slowing down and enjoying small things improved my mental health and creativity after a summer house trip.
What's Next
I'm committed to finding work-life balance over the next six years after learning that rest enhances productivity.
The big picture
Brooke Black, a former U.S. music industry professional, discovered that taking vacation days and embracing hygge improved her work-life balance in Denmark despite initial resistance.
