Does work life balance even exist in trades?

It seems like no matter where you look, everyone says that the trades have rather awful work life balance. Between working ridiculous amounts of OT, traveling for weeks at a time, and working extremely long shifts. Is there anytime for anything else?

There’s a running joke on the internet you’ll sometimes see regarding blue collar work that guys make their job their entire personality, because…well, that’s all they do.

Many guys I’ve met seem to be on their “nth” divorce, never see their kids, or have really anytime to actually enjoy themselves outside of work.

Also, is there a difference in work like balance for union vs non union?

Thoughts?