Affiliation:
1. Yalova University, Turkey
Abstract
Drawing on enrichment theory, the study examines whether academics' experience in one domain of work-life interface resulted in any enrichment in the other domain. The researcher conducted 26 semi-structured online interviews with academics from Turkey and the UK. Thematic analysis was utilized to identify themes and subthemes. The study shows that married people with young children (under 12) and especially female academics struggled the most to balance work and life during the pandemic because they had to fulfill their work and family responsibilities at the same time and place. Considering the research's findings from the enrichment model's perspective, it is concluded that remote work offers work and life enrichment to some extent to individuals, but individuals' diverse living circumstances matter in discussing work-life balance and the level of enrichment in work and life domains. This is important for organizations to put on their agenda while thriving to achieve diversity and develop inclusive workplaces in the post-COVID-19 era.