As we approach the end of October, the annual ritual of turning our clocks back an hour as we try to seize that last glimmer of daylight is once again upon us. Whether you see the extra hour in bed as win or find changing the clocks on the oven to be a major inconvenience, the change can have a significant impact on our daily routines, including our work schedules.
The Benefits of Flexible Working
In recent years flexible and remote working has become increasingly popular, and for good reason. With advancements in technology, many of us can now work from anywhere at any time, making it easier to balance work and personal responsibilities. Here are just a few of the benefits of flexible working:
Improved work-life balance
Flexible working allows employees to adjust their schedules to better accommodate personal responsibilities, such as childcare or caring for elderly relatives.
Increased productivity
Employees who have the flexibility to work when they are most productive are often able to get more done in less time.
Reduced stress
By avoiding rush hour traffic and being able to work in a more comfortable environment, employees may experience less stress and improved mental health.
Cost savings
Flexible working can reduce the need for office space and commuting, resulting in cost savings for both employees and employers.
How Flexible Working Can Help with the Time Change
The end of daylight-saving time can be a difficult adjustment for us all, especially those who struggle with sleep. Shorter days and longer nights, together with the prospect of a cold and long winter can have a knock on both physical and mental health. By offering flexible working options, employers can help their employees transition more smoothly to the new schedule. Here are a few ways flexible working can help:
Adjusting working hours
For employees who are particularly affected by the time change, employers may allow them to adjust their working hours for a few days after the change. For example, an employee who normally works from 9 am to 5 pm may be able to work from 10 am to 6 pm for a few days to help them adjust.
Remote working
For employees who have a long commute, remote working can be a great option to avoid rush hour traffic and allow for more restful sleep.
Flexible breaks
Employers may also allow employees to take more frequent breaks or work shorter hours during the first few days after the time change to help them adjust.
The end of daylight-saving time can be a challenging time for many people, but flexible working can help make the transition easier. By offering employees the ability to adjust their working hours, work remotely, or take more frequent breaks, employers can help their employees maintain productivity and reduce stress during this time of change. As we continue to embrace flexible working, we can all benefit from a better work-life balance and improved mental health.