A Look at Flexibility at Work from a Different Perspective

A Look at Flexibility at Work from a Different Perspective

Spotify recently implemented a new policy called "work from anywhere," allowing employees to choose their ideal location for focused and creative work. Drop box made a similar move with their "Virtual first" approach, prioritizing remote work for its employees and reserving in-person meetings for special events. This is significant considering that more than half of remote workers express their intention to seek employment at companies that offer long-term remote work options if their current company fails to do so. On the surface, it appears that this issue has been resolved. However, there is a difference between what is being said and the reality. Freedom at work does not equal to fulfilment

Flexibility does not equal to satisfaction

According to a recent study conducted by McKinsey, workplace flexibility did not even rank within the top five reasons why people resigned from their jobs in the previous year. When various job perks like free snacks or casual conversations with colleagues were stripped away at the end of 2018, individuals were left to evaluate the actual work itself and their level of motivation towards it. They began asking themselves crucial questions such as whether they enjoyed their job, if it was worth their time, and if it aligned with their aspirations. While these questions are valuable, many individuals mistakenly believed that they needed to completely revamp their careers or lives in order to find fulfillment. In 2021, more people voluntarily left their jobs than in any other recorded year, seeking a fresh start after a challenging period. However, nearly 50 percent of these individuals who found new employment reported that their new jobs did not meet their expectations.

Be internally driven for External Fulfilment

Perhaps one can embark on the next phase of their professional journey within an organization that is familiar with their abilities, where they have established trust and credibility, and where they are open to allowing them to explore new opportunities. This is not a suggestion for them to remain in a toxic work environment. There are instances where a more significant change, such as finding a new job or pursuing a different career, may be necessary. However, before one makes a decision based solely on the pursuit of happiness, it is worth considering that happiness is a temporary emotion. It is often dependent on external factors and fleeting in nature. On the other hand, fulfillment is enduring, profound, and long-lasting. It often requires more time and effort to achieve, but the rewards are significantly greater in the long run.

The way forward

As one look to generate fulfillment, they should consider three questions tied to three of its key components that are more internally driven. The first is joy which is tied to the kind of work that they love to do. Just because one is good at something, it doesn't mean that they enjoy doing it. So they should really consider what gives them a deep feeling of contentment. Next is impact, which means, the impact they add to the company. Focus on work that's in that sweet spot of meeting both their interests and the client's needs or the business needs. And finally, growth. Which knowledge or skills could they develop through these experiences?