Fitting Into the New Normal
Jemiama used to love her job. The thrill of office interactions, the coffee breaks that turned into brainstorming sessions, and the clear separation between work and home life made her career fulfilling.
But when her company switched to a hybrid model, things changed. The lines blurred mornings bled into evenings, and weekends felt like extended workdays. The flexibility that was meant to bring balance started to feel like a trap.
Hybrid working has transformed how we approach our jobs, offering the freedom to work from anywhere while still maintaining office connections.
But as highlighted by Hamlyn Williams, navigating this newnormal comes with challenges especially when it comes to maintaining an ethical work-life balance.
The Ethical Dilemma of Hybrid Work
On the surface, hybrid work seems like the best of both worlds. You get to enjoy the comfort of home while still fostering collaboration in the office. But with this newfound flexibility comes a subtle but dangerous expectation—always being available.
Employees, like Jemiama, often feel pressured to answer emails at odd hours, attend late meetings, and push themselves beyond healthy limits.
This is where workplace ethics play a crucial role. Companies have a responsibility to set clear guidelines on availability, workload distribution, and respect for personal time. Likewise, employees must learn to set boundaries and respect their own need for rest.
The Role of Employers in Ethical Hybrid Work Environments
A truly effective hybrid model requires ethical leadership. Employers must:
· Set clear working hours and discourage after-hours communication unless necessary.
· Provide mental health support and encourage regular breaks.
· Recognize and respect the personal responsibilities of remote employees.
· Foster a results-driven culture instead of an "always online" expectation.
When companies uphold these ethical practices, employees feel more valued and less burnt out. And in turn, productivity soars.
Employee Responsibility: Creating a Healthy Work-Life Balance
While organizations play a significant role, employees must also take charge of their well-being. Here’s how:
· Set Boundaries: Log off when your work hours end. Just because your laptop is nearby doesn’t mean you should be working 24/7.
· Communicate Openly: If expectations become overwhelming, have honest conversations with your manager.
· Prioritize Self-Care: Whether it’s taking a walk, reading a book, or spending time with loved ones, make time for activities that recharge you.
· Respect Office Days: Use in-office days to build relationships and collaborate rather than simply replicating remote work.
The Future of Hybrid Work: Finding the Balance
Jemiama eventually found her balance. She started enforcing clear boundaries, spoke up about unrealistic expectations, and educated herself on ethical hybrid work practices. Today, she enjoys the flexibility of hybrid work without sacrificing her mental well-being.
Hybrid working is here to stay, but its success depends on how well companies and employees uphold ethical work-life balance. It’s not just about where we work—it’s about ensuring that work remains sustainable, fulfilling, and human-centered.
How has hybrid work impacted your work-life balance? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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