Growing workplace expectations to be constantly online are resulting in millions of Australians being deskbound as one in four surveyed admit they don’t see daylight hours during the working day. One in five workers are catching a mere 15 minutes out of the office for fresh air each day, and more than one in 10 are missing dinner with their kids to be online in the office.
But, thanks to technology, all this could soon change. New research commissioned by amaysim, Australia’s first low-cost mobile service provider, shows that mobile working could provide a ray of light to help battle the workplace grind.
Taking the initiative to work remotely from home or outdoors is the smart worker’s choice. According to Pscyhologist Kathryn McEwen: “We live in a culture of constant connection. Being accessible and instantly responsive to clients and colleagues is fast becoming an office expectation. Today’s smart worker knows that being online doesn’t have to mean a lot of desk time. Mobile working can be your ticket to modern independence – and the benefits are exponential.”
amaysim and workplace Psychologist Kathryn McEwen, offer these top tips to make sure work doesn’t get in the way of life:
Choose your hours:
We all have different body rhythms. Some people have more energy in the morning while others are more alert later in the day. Working with, rather than against, these natural forces makes us more productive. Utilising tools like remote access help you make the most of the times of the day when you really churn through the work.
Workplace relatives: Bosses and co-workers are a bit like relatives – you don’t get to choose them and often you wouldn’t spend time with them by choice. Take advantage of mobile access to get some time out for personal space; it dilutes negative interaction and allows time for perspective.
The flexibility factor: The flexibility that mobile access gives you increases your sense of control, letting you decide when and how you do your work. Use mobile access to ensure you still get your errands done and take care of the things that really matter to you.
The security blanket: The key is to have the security of mobile access without it dominating your life. Just because you have the option of always being connected, doesn’t mean you have to be. Remember, there’s always the “off” button!
The great outdoors: Fresh air and natural light instantly make you feel awake while a quick walk increases energy. ‘Walk and Talk’ meetings are an excellent way of rejuvenating while still getting the work done.
While the 40 hour week is a distant dream for some, tools like amaysim’s MOBILE BROADBAND let people get the job done while breaking free of their desks.
