Nursing Professional Development Certification (NPD-BC) Practice Exam

Which of the following likely indicates a healthy work-life balance?

1. Working for the salary that allows one to live the life they desire

2. Feeling that work is at the center of life

3. Volunteering to work overtime and on holidays

4. Leaving work on time and refusing overtime assignments

The correct answer is: Leaving work on time and refusing overtime assignments

A healthy work-life balance is characterized by individuals effectively managing their work commitments while also prioritizing personal time and well-being. Leaving work on time and refusing overtime assignments clearly reflects this balance, as it indicates a person is not excessively consumed by their job and values their time outside of work. This behavior allows individuals to engage in personal activities, spend time with family and friends, and focus on self-care, all of which are essential for mental and emotional health. In contrast, options that involve prioritizing work excessively—such as feeling that work is at the center of life or volunteering to work overtime—indicate an imbalance. While working for a salary that meets one's lifestyle can be important, it does not inherently signify a healthy work-life balance unless it is accompanied by time management that allows for leisure and personal fulfillment. Thus, the choice to leave work on time and decline extra hours highlights a proactive approach to maintaining this balance.