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Lets talk about work-life balance

It is a heavily discussed topic, particularly when you work in the world of HR or/and are a parent and/or someone wanting to have a life. I think that’s everyone then…

What it means to one person, is not the same as another, and there in lies the challenge. Companies want to encourage flexible working but it’s a failing formula if the answer is ‘you can work one day a week from home’. It is prescriptive, not everyone wants it and not all jobs will suit the work from home plan. Think Doctors: not a chance.

So what does flexible working look like for you? We would love your comments, and thoughts and we know it’s important in the Mummy world. Mother Pukka is on a campaign to make flexible working the default for all. Hoorah I hear you all cry. I can imagine more WoMos at the school gates, and more meetings taking place over Skype or your in-company equivalent.

With the gig economy doubling in size over the last three years and the younger generations rise enter the workforce expecting more flexibility, we have to change. We as employees and employers need to shift our mindset. As mothers, we know we are superb multi-taskers, and a gig economy mindset is just that. Spreading your talent across different things, jobs and or people/kids gives us the balance we all want.

If you want to launch into a gig economy way of working, or perhaps you already have, we know there are challenges that come with that too. Perhaps you feel disconnected from a traditional office environment or you find the lack of routine overwhelming. This article gives more insight into some of the challenges you might face, albeit, you would have more flexibility.

So where does that leave you if you are employed, wanting more flexibility and see no way of making it happen? With the challenge of constantly being on via a small device in our pockets we are able to respond to work, take calls and be absent from the desk. Keep talking to your business, keep asking, and keep reminding EVERYONE why flexible working matters. It makes us happier, means we are more productive, boosts morale and is better for our overall mental health.