The French Were Right All Along: How Work-Life Balance Became the Ultimate Motivation 

For decades, France has championed work-life balance as an essential component of a fulfilling life – prioritising leisure, family time, and well-being over relentless hustle.  

While many other countries glorified long hours and constant availability, the French were taking long lunches, extended summer breaks, and actively disconnecting from work after hours. Now, the Randstad Workmonitor 2025 report reveals that the world is finally catching up, with work-life balance ranking as the top priority for employees worldwide, even above salary. It turns out France was right all along. 

The French philosophy: work to live, not live to work 

The French have long embraced the idea that work should serve life, not consume it. The famous saying “work to live, not live to work” is more than just a motto; it is ingrained in French culture. Charles de Gaulle himself once said, “life is not work: working incessantly makes you crazy.” This philosophy has guided labour policies and social attitudes for decades, ensuring that workers have ample time to enjoy life beyond the office. 

Shorter workweeks, more holiday 

France has some of the most employee-friendly labour laws in the world. The standard working week is set at 35 hours, which is significantly shorter than in many other countries. Employees are entitled to a minimum of five weeks of paid holiday annually. Many businesses, particularly smaller ones, shut down entirely during August, allowing employees to take long summer breaks without guilt. The law also mandates that every worker must have at least eleven consecutive hours away from work each day. 

These regulations have led to a culture where rest, relaxation, and leisure are just as important as professional success. French society recognises that overworking leads to stress and burnout, and instead values a more sustainable approach to productivity and well-being.

The sacred lunch break 

Forget the rushed sandwich at the desk – in France, the midday meal is sacred. In many workplaces, lunch breaks last up to two hours, giving employees time to eat, socialise, and recharge. It is common to see professionals enjoying a leisurely sit-down meal at a café or restaurant. 

This tradition is not just about food but about maintaining a balanced life. The French believe that taking time for a proper meal improves both well-being and productivity. As the saying goes, a hungry worker is an angry worker.

“Les vacances”: the ultimate summer break 

One of the most enviable aspects of French work culture is “les vacances.” Each summer, from late July to August, much of France essentially shuts down. Many businesses, particularly smaller ones, close for the entire month, allowing employees to take extended holidays without the pressure of keeping up with work emails. 

It is an unspoken rule that everyone, from executives to entry-level workers, takes time off. This approach prevents burnout and ensures that when employees return, they are well-rested and more productive. The French see extended holidays as a necessity rather than a luxury, making their approach to time off one of the most generous in the world.

The right to disconnect: no more after-hours emails 

In France, personal time is truly personal. Since 2017, French employees have had the “right to disconnect” from work-related communications outside of working hours, particularly in companies with more than fifty employees. This means that employers cannot expect late-night email replies or weekend check-ins. 

This law was designed to combat burnout and preserve mental health, setting a precedent that many other countries are now considering adopting. The concept reinforces the idea that work should not encroach upon personal time, allowing employees to fully switch off and recharge. 

The global shift: everyone wants work-life balance now 

The Randstad Workmonitor 2025 report highlights a major shift in global workplace attitudes. A significant majority of employees, now prioritising work-life balance over salary, are seeking flexible work arrangements and remote options to improve their quality of life. The pandemic accelerated the realisation that long hours and constant availability are neither sustainable nor necessary for success. 

As more countries adopt policies that align with France’s long-standing work-life balance philosophy, it is clear that the French approach was not merely a cultural quirk but a model for a healthier, happier workforce. Employers worldwide are now recognising that employee well-being directly correlates with long-term productivity and job satisfaction. 

The French had it right all along 

For years, the French were mocked for their extended holidays, long lunch breaks, and refusal to answer emails after hours. But now, as the world shifts towards prioritising well-being over burnout, it turns out they were ahead of their time. As more employees and companies embrace a balanced lifestyle, France stands as the shining example of how work and life can harmoniously coexist. 

Perhaps it is time for the rest of the world to consider taking a page from the French playbook—preferably over a two-hour lunch.