Embracing Flexibility: Achieving a Work-Life Balance

Work-Life Week Banner 2023 Sharon McCormack

Embracing Flexibility: Achieving a Work-Life Balance – Sharon McCormack.

Head of Project Managemant

Since it is National Work Life Week 2023, I would like to take this opportunity to share my personal circumstances and how I’ve been able to achieve a better work-life balance through flexible working. This annual campaign is a vital time for both employers and employees to engage in conversations about well-being at work and achieving that delicate work-life balance. It’s a unique opportunity for organisations like Quorum to showcase our commitment to employee well-being and the flexible working policies and practices that underpin it.

I’m sure many parents and carers can relate to the experience of their little one starting school, a transition that ushers in a mix of emotions and logistical challenges I hadn’t initially anticipated. On one hand, there’s the excitement of their new chapter in life, brimming with opportunities for learning, forging new friendships, and embracing the joyous moments it holds. On the other hand, there’s a sense of nervousness about this significant change: Will they enjoy it? Will they make friends, settle in, and not yearn for the familiar surroundings of nursery? It’s quite the emotional rollercoaster for everyone involved, and that’s even before we delve into the intricacies of school routines – the drop-offs, pickups, and the aspect that further contributed to my organsational concerns – the half-day Fridays.

To be completely honest, there is not a day when I don’t feel incredibly fortunate to work for Quorum for so many different and great reasons, but this situation truly highlighted it. Yet, it was this particular situation that illuminated the organisation’s exceptional qualities. I initiated a conversation with my manager about the possibility of embracing flexible working arrangements on alternate Fridays, and the support I received was nothing short of exceptional. I envisioned a shift to compressed working hours, enabling me to maintain a full-time commitment while enjoying alternate Friday half-days. Collaboratively with our HR team, we meticulously crafted this arrangement, defining daily working patterns, and from that point forward, I was ready to embark on this new journey. It genuinely felt like a burden had been lifted from my shoulders.

The impact on my overall workweek has been minimal. I now invest slightly more time on the other workdays, ensuring that all tasks and deliverables are well-managed before my scheduled half-day. I’ve seamlessly settled into a routine of time and task management, ensuring that there’s no adverse effect on my work or the clients I collaborate with. However, the transformation in my personal life has been nothing short of remarkable. I now treasure the opportunity to spend quality time with my daughter after school, and we fondly refer to these moments as ‘Friday Fun Days.’ Whether we venture out for exciting adventures or relish quality time at home engaged in fun activities together, it’s a precious bond that’s strengthened through this newfound flexibility.

I fully grasp that flexible working is a pivotal topic in numerous workplaces, and for me, its impact on my life is genuinely invaluable. I feel incredibly fortunate to have the option to embrace this lifestyle, and I’m immensely grateful to be part of an organisation that not only values but actively encourages flexible working.

As National Work Life Week 2023 draws to a close, let’s continue to celebrate the importance of work-life harmony. This week has been a chance for us all to highlight the strides made in the realm of employee well-being and to encourage further discussion and action within our workplaces. Together, we can foster environments where individuals thrive both personally and professionally.