Beyond Daily Wages: An Empirical Inquiry into Work Rhythms, Rest Deficits, and Work–Life Balance in the Informal Economy of Chikmagalur

The informal economy in India is affected by unregulated work structures, trembling work hours, small rest periods, and minimal access to occupational support systems. These dynamics significantly influence how workers manage daily time demands and sustain work–life equilibrium. This study explores work rhythms, rest deficits, and perceptions of work–life balance among informal workers in Chikmagalur district using primary data from multiple respondents across five different sectors and the findings reveal centralization of long-hour work patterns, inadequate rest intervals, high physical strain, and inconsistent workplace facilities. Workers experience varying stress and role overload due to unpredictable work routines and financial hardship. The analysis highlights the importance of structured work schedules, basic workplace amenities, and improved rest provisions for sustaining workers’ physical and mental well-being. The study contributes empirical insights into the temporal pressures embedded within informal labor patterns and offers recommendations to enhance the lived work experiences of unorganized workers.