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work life balance is good if you can balance it in a fulfilling way. Not the entitlement that you want to leave on the dot, no weekend, good appraisal, high increment, and fair promotion opportunities. some may say the old days were over when people work late and weekend, and the older generation is outdated on what productivity means. Nevertheless, my concern was what has stated, instead of advocating too much on this until your kids seeing it as an entitlement (yah try telling them to do housework and they start giving you the same excuse of what you advocate), rather parents should teach their kids about hard work, perseverance, endurance and tolerant and not take things for granted. Not asking you to clock 60 hours a week with no life (but why not if you are single and work hard for the money!), I understand many will argue that there are still people working hard today, which i agree and it was also mentioned in the article even for someone in the 30s, different background groom different people. So when you have the balance but other is putting double effort, do not blame others who worker harder getting a better chance of promoting (including FW/FT) or things in life and you just sit there and whine THIS IS UNFAIR! (life is unfair that people dun have to work so hard yet get to enjoy but that is not an entitlement, probably luck!) This is just an old man view.

I wanted to blog about this right when it happened last year, but I guess the willingness with which one tends to share positive news is always greater than that for something negative. Anyhow, wind the clock back to August 2024: Upon completing my 2.4km run on a Sunday morning at Bedok Camp and realising that I had barely ducked under 13 minutes, I distinctly remember feeling plain shock. Surely a Pass with Incentive would have been possible at the very least? Cries in one-point away (but that's also not the, ahem, point) But buried more thoroughly within was overwhelming guilt that I had allowed my 9-6 (or 10-7) fatigue spill over into the evenings, and more often than not, into the weekends too - so much so that regular cardio had quickly slipped out my routine. For a good 10-15 minutes after, I wallowed intensely in self-pity, questioning how exactly this had happened… …then I immediately drove from Bedok Camp to Mahamoodiya for prata. (I think my mind went somewhere into the realm of, “Whatever, my body is clearly not in its most optimal state anyway.”) The good thing about having your birthday fall closer to the end of the year, however, is that it falls perfectly in line with the season of looking back on the year… which then quickly leads into resolution-building. Lingering evidence of my undeserved, post-IPPT indulgence (Dated: 25/08/2024) I hate to admit it still, but some time over the past two years, I started taking to alcohol a lot more liberally than I had ever done before in my life. Workouts were also dedicated entirely to lifting weights, and not running. That, plus a general lack of boundaries with how my time was siphoned away, caused all that neglect to my body. There wasn’t any big goal or life-changing update actually - just a more intentional and quietly consistent effort to fully utilise my ClassPass credits on HIIT-centred workouts. The idea was to integrate strength and cardio training more tightly together, but a crucial piece of the puzzle was to also set a hard cutoff for myself on at least one weekday every week. (The penalties are quite harsh on the wallet if you miss a class you’ve booked.) An 8pm class means that you’re forced to shut your laptop by 7pm, and even if there are more time-sensitive duties to see to after, you’ve still gotten a workout in at least. Anyhow, when the time came this year: Silver! (I must quickly caveat here that everyone has different standards for their own health. Scoring well enough to receive some money from MINDEF is, for some reason, part of my metrics for self-worth; it certainly doesn’t have to be for everyone. In essence - as long as you’re healthy and happy, how high your IPPT score rockets shouldn’t matter that much. I hope this makes it clear that this entire rant is thus no judgement against anyone who’s very happy with a ‘Pass’.) Something something 'life is a marathon and not a sprint'... Having $300 PayNow-ed to you almost instantly is quite satisfying, but more than that, I think the joy of this year’s result lies in how it reflects progress and growth. In the meantime, I’ve allowed myself a bit more self-directed kindness. A good weekly routine – for easily fatigued folks like yours truly - can get broken all too quickly when you have to leave the country nearly every month, or when the folks at MINDEF think it’s fine to throw you into two separate high key ICTs within a span of 7 months. Things are not always perfect, of course – I still think I could be doing a lot more for my fitness – but the voice in my head, reminding myself that I have to treat my body right, has certainly gotten louder. Even when my fitness levels inevitably dip at some point in the future (in fact, as I type this out, I feel like I’m staring at the cusp of a new downward spiral), I have more faith now that I have it in myself to pick it back up. - Matt

It’s likely a common sight in every office you set foot in: Workers with their heads buried in their desktops/laptops, earbuds dutifully plugged in (or headphones chucked on). Having a tune to go into battle alongside you against anything that happens at work seems to be as essential as having a caffeinated drink perched on the table, it seems. Thus also arises the question, however: Does a symphony of melodies really serve as the secret ingredient to unlocking peak productivity? The debate surrounding the impact of music on work performance is as old as time, with opinions varying from staunch advocates to fervent detractors. While exploring the complex relationship between auditory stimulation and cognitive function, it’s worth digging deeper to ask: Can the right soundtrack transform your work experience, or does it merely serve as a pleasant distraction? Listening classical music apparently aids in boosting memory retention and information recall The Benefits of Listening to Music for Mental Stimulation and Productivity Enhanced cognitive function At this point, there is perhaps no longer any need to question the varied wonders of music – and so it should come as no surprise too that the signs pointing to playing music at work are largely positive. For starters, listening to music at work can significantly enhance cognitive function by stimulating various brain regions involved in processing sound and memory. Of course, a lot hinges on what you choose to listen; music with a more complex structure, like classical music, can aid in boosting memory retention and information recall. This is due to the engagement of neural circuits that enhance cognitive capabilities such as attention and focus, crucial for maintaining a productive work life. Emotional regulation and stress reduction But it’s not just on the cognitive front that music can help; it also plays a pivotal role in emotional regulation, which is essential for maintaining productivity. By triggering the release of dopamine, music can effectively reduce stress and anxiety levels, creating a more conducive environment for work. This is especially beneficial in high-pressure work environments (like those often found on our sunny island), where the soothing effects of music can foster a calmer and more focused mindset. Increased motivation and morale That brings us to yet another major benefit: The right type of music can spur motivation and energy, helping tackle monotonous or daunting tasks with greater enthusiasm. Of course, it helps if you and your deskie share similar inclinations: Music can spark connections and conversations among colleagues. As a result, actively incorporating music into your work life could not only boost individual productivity, but even foster a more vibrant and cohesive workplace environment. It's all about creating a more positive experience for yourself at work! Integrating music into our work routines Emotional engagement with music Harnessing emotional engagement through music can be an effective strategy to enhance productivity and maintain a healthy work life. Apparently, we’ve been recommended to opt for tracks that evoke positive emotions to elevate job satisfaction and performance. Especially for remote work settings, this emotional use of music could also help create a motivating environment. A caveat: Choosing the right music Having said that, choosing the right sort of music is key. As mentioned earlier, for tasks demanding deep concentration and mental focus, such as problem-solving or learning, instrumental or classical music is ideal. This allows your mind to engage without distractions while keeping cognitive pathways open for complex task execution. Conversely, pop music with lyrics is more suited for routine or physical tasks, acting as a stimulant that increases energy and reduces monotony, thus encouraging work flow in your remote work life as suggested by Forbes. It’s on this note too that a caveat must be laid out. The bread and butter of our Editorial team, for instance, is writing - and heavy listening to music with comprehensible lyrics could actually be detrimental for such forms of work. I’ll include this excerpt from The Straits Times, which concisely sums things up: "Because of connections between music and language in the brain, trying to read and write at the same time as listening to complex music – especially music with lyrics – can be particularly difficult." Ultimately, it’s helpful to experiment with different types of music to discover what best supports our productivity and morale at work. Reputation is full of great lyrics and hard-hitting bops - but if you're trying to get an article out on a tight timeline, you might wanna save Dancing with Our Hands Tied for break time instead Implementing Music Breaks Separately, music breaks can be a powerful tool in maintaining mental balance. Taking short breaks to listen to your favourite tracks can rejuvenate your mind, thereby boosting overall productivity. Whether through scheduled intervals or as needed, integrating these breaks can refresh your energy levels, making it easier to tackle tasks with renewed vigour. I’ll end off with an instrumental track that has captivated me in recent times (this was inspired by this fun read from WIRED that I came across recently and really enjoyed.) Happy bopping along at work everyone. (All images from Unsplash)

In a hyper-connected mega-city, where time seems to tick at a relentlessly brisk pace and where distractions are aplenty, pondering the art of productivity and focus is inevitable. In fact, it’s almost become a necessity. No wonder so many listicles have been written to point us in the right directions. Different methods works for different folks, of course, and when I was in my final year of university, I was introduced to a method that I regularly return to still: The Pomodoro Method, a deceptively simple technique that promises to transform the way we approach our daily tasks. Originating from the Italian word for "tomato," this method leverages short, timed intervals to enhance concentration and efficiency. Pomodoro originates from the Italian word for tomato! What Is the Pomodoro Technique? The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method that divides work into distinct intervals - typically 25 minutes each - known as "pomodoros." The technique, established in the late 1980s by Francesco Cirillo, aims to enhance focus and productivity. Each pomodoro is followed by a brief 3-5 minute respite, offering a mental reset. After four pomodoros, a more extended break of 15-30 minutes is encouraged to prevent burnout and maintain high motivation levels. As we strive to balance work life and leisure in bustling environments like Singapore, mastering this method's six steps could be vital for sustained efficiency. Whether used for studying tips or general focus tips, the Pomodoro Method offers a clear structure to determine effort, reduce interruptions, and define objectives for each task undertaken. Employing a physical timer or a digital app enhances this approach's effectiveness, further aiding personal accountability and productivity as noted in this source. Understanding the Theory Behind the Pomodoro Method The method's emphasis on structured time intervals aims to enhance focus and productivity; by dividing work into 25-minute periods, separated by short breaks, this technique significantly improves concentration and reduces burnout risks. This approach enables the completion of tasks with greater efficiency, particularly in dynamic environments like Singapore, where minimising distractions is critical. Implementing the Pomodoro Method in everyday routines, whether for studying or managing work life, encourages better time management. It provides clear guidelines for task execution. Moreover, the technique's ability to reduce procrastination can lead to more balanced and productive daily activities. This structured approach is not only about managing time but also about instilling a disciplined routine that can be adapted to various aspects of personal and professional life (TechTarget; Forbes). The 5 Steps in the Pomodoro Technique The best part about the Pomodoro Technique is the fact that it’s highly applicable to just about anything you need to settle in a day – whether it’s tackling a set of tasks in the office, or whether you’re just enjoying a reset day at home and aiming to get some deep cleaning of the house/room out of the way. (I personally use this free web app, which automates most of the Pomodoro Technique’s mechanisms!) Step 1: Choose Your Task: The Pomodoro Method begins with selecting a task you wish to accomplish. This initial step sets the foundation for what you'll achieve in focused sessions called "Pomodoros" as highlighted by Fellow. Set the timer, get it done! Step 2: Set the Timer: Next, set a timer for 25 minutes, dedicating this block entirely to your chosen task. This method encourages work-life balance by structuring your time. It's the core of the technique, compelling you to dive deep into focus as specified by Unito. Step 3: Work Without Distractions: During the Pomodoro, work with undivided focus until the timer sounds. This design enhances productivity and focus, banishing interruptions through disciplined intervals. Maintaining a distraction-free environment is vital to harness the method's full potential. Have a break. Have a .... Step 4: Take a Short Break: Once the timer ends, reward your concentration with a 5-minute break. This pause is crucial—allowing your mind to relax briefly, preventing burnout and preparing you for the next bout of productivity. Regular breaks are central, promoting sustained efficiency. Step 5: Repeat and Recharge: Persevere through four Pomodoro sessions, then enjoy a more extended break of 15-30 minutes. This cycle encourages balanced productivity and study techniques, seamlessly blending work rigour and restful intervals. Completing these cycles wards off mental fatigue while championing effective study and work habits in a bustling city like Singapore. Using the Pomodoro Timer: Additional tips for productivity The Pomodoro Method is also used most effectively when users begin by delineating tasks into small, actionable steps. Here's where those with more scatterbrain-tendencies might trip up slightly: It is apparently essential to work on one. task. at. a. time. during each Pomodoro to maintain optimal concentration. Productivity doesn't mean that we steamroll ahead relentlessly - rest is an important part of the equation too! Silence notifications and use tools like website blockers to eliminate distractions. After completing four Pomodoros, indulge in a more extended break of 15-30 minutes to recharge completely and sustain productivity. While the classic Pomodoro interval is 25 minutes, some have suggested that find experimenting with different durations could be beneficial - such as 45/15 or 35/5 combinations - depending on personal work rhythms and task complexities. To further enhance this, integrating a Pomodoro timer app can efficiently track and manage your sessions, providing a comprehensive overview of time spent on tasks to ensure productivity. By incorporating these focus tips, specifically designed for the workplace or study environments, the Pomodoro Method emerges as an indispensable tool for balancing work and life effectively. Having some structure could help many of us go through a day with clearer vision Benefits for all our ADHD-ers out there? Interestingly, the Pomodoro Method could prove particularly advantageous for individuals with ADHD due to its structured approach, which combats common challenges such as executive dysfunction and ADHD paralysis. (Source: Choosing Therapy). Dividing work into 25-minute intervals could provide a sense of organisation that enhances focus tips, and also addresses time blindness by making task durations concrete and achievable. Empowerment and motivation are stimulated through short-term wins from completing sessions. These periodic achievements are critical in boosting focus and productivity, offering a valuable tool for anyone needing effective studying tips or work-life improvements. (Note: This was just a nice picture (Shoutout to Carl Heyerdahl on Unsplash) - we are not defined by how much we get done!) One pomodoro after another! To be clear, the Pomodoro Method isn't a silver bullet, and still demands focus, balance, and a touch of discipline. Yet, it also offers a refreshing reminder that productivity need not be frenetic nor complicated, and can be a harmonious dance between work and rest. As we steer through our busy lives, embracing this method could help to provide allow clarity and purpose to each day. (Here, it's worth remembering too that we, as humans with our own complexities and needs, are not defined by how productive we are! Rest and self-care are important!) After all, getting through the inescapable demands of a single day can oftentimes be distilled down to putting one foot in front of the other - or stacking one pomodoro after another.

Every young adult probably arrives at the same point when they’ve started working for a few years: Household chores start to become more enjoyable. Don’t get me wrong – they don’t have to be one’s favourite activity on earth. But chores start to make sense: An environment that’s put-together is always a welcome haven, whether it’s returning home after a long day out, or simply staying in over the weekend (or when you’re working from home.) As a young adult myself, I've come to appreciate an unexpected ally in my quest for domestic bliss: The cordless vacuum cleaner. This marvel of modern engineering has likely revolutionised our approach to cleanliness, reducing the arduousness of vacuuming into a surprisingly enjoyable experience. Gone are the days of wrestling with cumbersome cords and lugging heavy machines from room to room. With this trusty cordless companion, you could, well, glide effortlessly through your apartment, vanquishing dust bunnies and crumbs with ease. The Joys of Cordless Vacuum Cleaners Effortless Maneuverability: Why are cordless vacuum cleaners (arguably popularised by Dyson) so wonderful to use? One of their greatest qualities is their incredible maneuverability. Some of the most lightweight models can weigh under 3kg - an absolute breeze to carry around, making it easy to clean every nook and cranny of one's apartment. The absence of a cord means also allows for seamless movement from room to room without the hassle of unplugging and replugging. Perfect for Quick Cleanups: In the whirlwind of young adulthood, time is precious. Cordless vacuum cleaners are ideal for those spontaneous cleaning sessions when unexpected guests are on their way, when you’re just tired from a long work day, or when you just want to clock some steps in at home. Their portability and convenience make them perfect for quick spot cleaning, ensuring our living spaces always look presentable without eating into our busy schedules. Tech-Savvy Cleaning: As a tech-enthusiastic millennial, it’s easy to appreciate too how cordless vacuum cleaners incorporate the latest technology! Many models now feature laser dust detection and battery life indicators, adding a fun, high-tech element to the mundane task of cleaning. It's like having a cleaning gadget straight out of a sci-fi movie! Tackling Every Surface: There’s also the fact that our living spaces often feature a mix of flooring types. A versatile vacuum that can transition between hardwood, tiles, and carpets is invaluable, and the fact that most models come with different attachments - and adjustable brush rolls - also means the ability effectively clean various surfaces. Why household chores are more enjoyable as a young adult There's something liberating about tackling chores on your own terms. No longer pressured by parental schedules or naggy pre-set reminders, I’ve found myself vacuuming when I please, and involuntarily too. This newfound autonomy and motivation make the task feel less like a chore - and more like a choice. It seems I’m not alone either: According to a Reddit discussion, many young adults find that cordless vacuums encourage more frequent cleaning due to their convenience. Furthermore, in the realm of young adulthood where many goals seem distant, the immediate satisfaction of a clean space is refreshing. Running a vacuum cleaner over a dusty floor and instantly seeing results provides a sense of accomplishment. It's a small win in the grand scheme of adult life, certainly, but it's also tangible and immediate. And of course, there’s always the aspect of clearing one’s mind. Surprisingly, routine tasks can offer moments of mindfulness in our hectic lives. As you guide your vacuum across the floor, fully present and focused on the task at hand with only the whir of the motor audible, the mind suddenly becomes less cloudy. It's a brief respite from the constant barrage of notifications and responsibilities that often characterise adult life. Small but significant revolution in urban living As I reflect on my journey with cordless vacuum cleaners, I'm struck by how these devices have become indispensable companions for young adults like myself navigating life. Their portability and convenience align perfectly with our fast-paced, space-conscious lifestyles. Bear with me as this may be a stretch for some – but beyond mere cleaning tools, they represent freedom, efficiency, and a touch of high-tech cool in our everyday routines. Scoff at this enthusiasm if you want, but I stand firm in my belief that cordless vacuums are more than appliances. They're lifestyle enhancers; a small but significant revolution in urban living. Additional images from Unsplash

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/commentary/work-life-balance-covid-19-hybrid-remote-great-resignation-wave-jobs-2682751 Many of us hold on to work-life balance as an ideal, without acknowledging the blood and sweat that make it possible in the first place, or how it’s not always feasible in our circumstances, says business writer Keith Yap. SINGAPORE: Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, working norms, especially in knowledge-intensive industries, have changed forever. Many of us have become skilled practitioners of working from home, attending Zoom Meetings with smart tops and pyjama bottoms, and eating lunches with Netflix instead of co-workers. In light of other trends like employees reconsidering their priorities and quitting their jobs, the narratives surrounding the future of work has percolated into online discourse. From TikTok to Harvard Business Review, the Internet is replete with advice on navigating this brave new world after the pandemic. While narratives about work are varied and fragmented, the motif of workers' burnout remains consistent. As offices in Singapore fling their doors open to welcome back all workers, many are pushing back against burnout in favour of pursuing work-life balance. Many of us visualise a seesaw when thinking about work-life balance, with the ideal of work and life on both ends perfectly level. It’s a zero-sum game and our language reflects any perceived imbalance – work “eats into” our weekends, we worry about "sacrificing" careers if we have kids and take parental leave. The hypothetical employee who’s achieved the coveted work-life balance looks like this: They enjoy autonomy in their professional life. They work a remote job, log in at nine, be ultra productive and go offline at six, commuting to the office only twice a week. They can reject all work communication outside of those hours. The rest of their time is protected for better pursuits, dedicated to dabbling in the guitar, cooking risotto for the family and catching up with pals every week. JOB MOVEMENTS AREN’T ALWAYS LIFESTYLE UPGRADES But a closer look reveals two key problems. First, a rigid conceptualisation of balance assumes such a lifestyle is immediately attainable for everyone, especially more junior employees. The Great Resignation Wave should not conceal the fact that many workers are leveraging the moment to move up in the same industry to get higher pay and more flexible work arrangements. But to make such moves, workers need bargaining power. They do this by spending most of their waking lives for years honing their craft, developing an edge to differentiate themselves in a crowded labour market. If workers at the beginning of their career prioritise flexibility and autonomy, they will end up compromising on picking up and perfecting skills required for career progression. Granted, one can reject the prospect of sprinting up the corporate ladder and trade progression for flexibility. This trade-off is laudable for some but impractical for others. However, current discussions assume job movements are unconditional lifestyle upgrades, without acknowledging the blood and sweat that made them possible. And with the new slate of responsibilities, the exigencies of work might mean compartmentalising work and life becomes even more challenging for all but the most senior roles. COMPANIES CAN’T ALWAYS PROMISE WORK-LIFE BALANCE With the spotlight on employee well-being, companies are embarking on more initiatives like offering mindfulness workshops or meditation apps, even giving employees mental health off days. Workers point out such efforts do not address the root cause of burnout: Exhausting work conditions. More are calling on corporate leaders to re-examine working hours and their expectations of employees. But here lies the second problem: Despite the best efforts of employers, the realities of work often make it difficult for companies to promise work-life balance. Any seasoned worker knows projects often take more time than expected and are prepared to work overtime to meet deadlines. The inconvenient truth is that a company exists for-profit and must outperform competitors. Thus the paradox of work-life balance is two-fold. To provide it indiscriminately, the company risks compromising its mission. To pursue it indiscriminately, the worker risks compromising career progression. EMBRACING WORK-LIFE RHYTHM INSTEAD It might be high time to discard the term “work-life balance” and that mental image of a seesaw. Let’s embrace instead the pursuit of a healthy “work-life rhythm” - a rhythm that moves with need, alternating between periods of hard work and deep rest over time. This can facilitate professional development and organisational growth while alleviating worker burnout. During periods of hard work, the worker is focused on project completion and will expect an intense workload. This could mean working past office hours regularly or even burning the midnight oil on some occasions. In return, companies can guarantee a minimum of work-free hours (such as weekends or mass block leave) so workers can tend to their personal lives. Conversely, professional obligations would be kept to an absolute minimum during periods of deep rest. During a company-wide lull, staff don’t have to worry about lingering work responsibilities, and can take on new hobbies or go on extended vacations. This would mark a divergence from our current practice of leaving workers to manage their leave schedule. Wouldn't we feel a nagging pang of guilt if we scooted over to Bali while our colleagues were working, even when we intuitively know there is not much to do? Conversations on work-life rhythm aren’t yet mainstream, though proponents compare it to seasons. Just as there are seasons for planting, harvesting and resting, we go through life phases where we can give our all to work – whether it’s building a business or designing a product – and where we must dedicate ourselves to family. Beyond the debate whether we should shift towards four-day work weeks, perhaps we should also be talking about 10-month work years. A GREATER APPRECIATION OF LIFE WITH EXTENDED PERIODS OF REST As a healthy work-life rhythm will benefit Singapore greatly, the Government can take the lead, as it has done so by calling for flexible work arrangements to become a permanent feature. The Government can continue actively engaging industry players through incentives and dialogues to shape better work norms. At a national level, such a work-life rhythm creates a society where no one is compelled to work laboriously throughout the year. It could empower more individuals to devote their spare time to work of public importance such as volunteering, political participation and the arts. Other more career-minded ones would improve their skills to be more productive at work. Most importantly, there will be a greater appreciation of life with extended periods of relaxation. We can focus on our family and friends, which goes a long way in countering burnout, cynicism and angst. COVID-19 has forced us to re-imagine the future of work. It might be time to retire the pursuit of the ever-elusive work-life balance. After all, isn't the whole point of a seesaw to enjoy the alternating rhythm of ups and downs instead of always toiling to balance ourselves perfectly?

seriously, how to work life balance ehh? i think 4G is giving too much idea to the young until they all ya-ya-pa-pa-ya there is no easy money ... T2 will say ... you must go into the cave to get the tiger cubs ... https://mothership.sg/2023/07/dbs-piyush-gupta-work-life-balance-baloney/

S’pore NMP Proposes 4 Days Work In Office & 1 At Home After Covid-19 For Better Balance source: https://mustsharenews.com/work-home-covid-19/ NMP Proposes Flexible Work Arrangements After Covid-19 For Better Work-Life Balance The need to adjust to a new way of life amidst the Covid-19 outbreak included nationwide calls to work from home. While the end of ‘Circuit Breaker’ marked a return to old ways for many, the new arrangement might become the norm for others. Members of Parliament (MPs) yesterday (5 Jun) discussed the future of work-life balance for Singapore workers, and proposed some changes worth standing behind. 5-day work to split between home & office According to The Straits Times (ST), Nominated MP (NMP) Mohamed Irshad suggested a flexible work schedule for all. Instead of working all 5 days in the office or other sites, their time can be split into 4 days at work and 1 day where they get to work from home if they wish. Employers can further tweak the perks by offering flexible work hours each day. He cited successful firms like Microsoft which operate on this model, with almost 40% better productivity. New Zealand is also considering the change to improve work-life balance. Perhaps with less rigid schedules, work may become less stressful, which in turn could boost morale and afford workers with more time for family and other personal matters. Extra paid childcare leave for working parents In the same vein, MP Louis Ng proposed more government-paid childcare leave, which will at least get parents through Phase 2 post ‘Circuit Breaker’. With children still on rotational Home-Based Learning (HBL), parents will have to continue monitoring them closely. For many, being home themselves too adds on more domestic responsibilities on top of their existing workload. ST reports Mr Ng’s explanation that many parents have resorted to unpaid leave, which may be hard on their finances in the current climate. As such, government-paid childcare leave will greatly ease both their employers’ and their own burdens. Covid-19 highlighted the need for more balance at work As work from home inevitably blurs the lines between professional and personal time, it raises the different stress points Singapore workers have been experiencing. More than anything, this Covid-19 measure has highlighted the need for better work-life balance. We’re glad that our leaders are helping to voice our concerns, and we hope that we can look forward to some changes soon.

Millennials in charge of millennials Ms Josephine Chow (right), 28, ShopBack's Singapore country manager. With her is Ms Samantha Soh (left), 23, a founder of the online cashback rewards site.ST PHOTO: AZMI ATHNI Millennials are the much-discussed generation born between 1980 and 2000 with a reputation for being entitled, finicky and frank to the point of seeming insubordinate. They account for 40 per cent of the workforce. So what happens when millennial business owners end up hiring other millennials? How do these young bosses deal with managing their own opinionated peers? The Sunday Times pops into five such workplaces PUBLISHED: 6 HOURS AGO Ankita Varma LATE? BUY EVERYONE COFFEE When you work at online cashback rewards site ShopBack, you do not have to worry about wearing proper office attire or checking your social media channels during working hours. However, there is one piece of advice that every millennial employee at the company will give you: Do not arrive at work later than 9.15am. Latecomers will find their names entered into a pool, from which three names are drawn every month. Their punishment? Foot the bill for Starbucks coffee for the entire company. The "Starbucks Lucky Draw" policy has helped "encourage" everyone in the team of more than 50 to get to work on time every day. ShopBack, which gives shoppers a portion of their online spending back when they shop through the portal on sites such as fashion e-tailer Zalora and online grocer RedMart, was started by six founders under 30 years old in September 2014. For the youngest of them, Ms Samantha Soh, 23, enforcing the punctuality rule has been an important way to build team spirit. The user interface designer, who is single, worked at Rocket Internet, a company that builds and invests in Internet companies, before leaving to start ShopBack in 2014. Given how much time we spend in the office, it's not absurd that millennials expect a nurturing, dynamic and fun work environment. MS JOSEPHINE CHOW, 28, ShopBack's Singapore country manager. With her is Ms Samantha Soh, 23, a founder of the online cashback rewards site "Team bonding doesn't just happen because a bunch of millennials work together," she says. "There needs to be guidelines in place to ensure team members can interact with one another." Still, it does not hurt that the company's 2,000 sq ft office space in Ayer Rajah has a cool start-up vibe - an open-plan working area that merges seamlessly into comfortable lounging areas, complete with bean bags, a ping-pong table and a variety of snacks and drinks. Its millennial employees enjoy working in the office so much that the company has "shopcations" - particularly busy periods when staff opt to stay overnight at the office rather than go home. Its Singapore country manager, Ms Josephine Chow, 28, who is single and also worked at Rocket Internet previously, says a cosy workplace allows for happier and more productive employees. She says: "Given how much time we spend in the office, it's not absurd that millennials expect a nurturing, dynamic and fun work environment. "In this day and age, the onus is on managers and companies to provide those for them." DO NOT CALL HIM BOSS Mr Tristan Torres Velat (far left), 36, general manager of food delivery portal Deliveroo, who practises a flattened workpalce hierarchy. ST PHOTO: MARCUS TAN Working for Deliveroo, Mr Tristan Torres Velat has on many occasions driven a motorbike to deliver food. Every Friday, he also dons a full Kangaroo suit - the "Roo" in Deliveroo - to hand out fliers in the Central Business District under the noon sun. It may be hard to imagine, but he is the general manager of the Singapore branch of the British- based food delivery firm Deliveroo. The 36-year-old oversees about 50 staff who are about 24 years old on average. His team includes marketing and branding managers, a customer service team and more than 1,000 delivery drivers. The self-confessed "crazy Spaniard" believes in a radically flattened workplace hierarchy. He does not have a separate office and, instead, constantly rotates where he sits among his team at their shophouse space in Tanjong Pagar so that he can talk to them informally. I have it written above my bathroom mirror that happy employees equal happy customers. MR TRISTAN TORRESVELAT, 36, general manager of food delivery portal Deliveroo, who practises a flattened workpalce hierarchy He also provides a team lunch every Friday and refuses to let anyone call him boss. "I have it written above my bathroom mirror that happy employees equal happy customers," says the former private banker who is married with three children. "Having a young team means dedicating nearly 60 per cent of my time to people management. But that is a small price to pay to have people who are dynamic, creative and ready to try new things." Launched in Singapore six months ago, Deliveroo delivers food from more than 900 restaurants such as P.S. Cafe, Wild Honey and the Paradise Dynasty group. Whenever it partners a new eatery, Mr Velat handles the first delivery himself. Account manager Melanie Tan, 24, who was one of the company's first hires, says: "Tristan leads by example and that has made me feel more invested in the company." Business development manager Adam Sanusi, 25, agrees. "Getting the opportunity to do things shoulder to shoulder with my team - both peers and superiors - is the best part for me." TRUSTING STAFF WITH UNLIMITED LEAVE Mr Sam Kang Li and Mr Darren Tan, both 32, on hiring staff who share the same wavelength for their video production agency Little Red Ants Creative Studio, including Ms Yvonne Chong, 22, a producer. ST PHOTO: CHEW SENG KIM The first thing you notice when you walk into the offices of video production agency Little Red Ants Creative Studio is a giant pile of shoes by the door. Like many homes, there is a no- shoes-indoors policy, as well as a very casual dress code. The employees, who are mostly in their 20s, sport comfortable attire - think shorts, jeans and tees. The relaxed, almost campus-like, vibe seems unsurprising, given the five millennial founders of the company - all photography enthusiasts and former classmates at the Nanyang Technological University's Wee Kim Wee School of Communication and Information - were under 25 years old when they started the company in 2009. The company, which produces mainly television advertisements and corporate videos, has in seven years grown to include 15 more staff, averaging 25 years old in age. It owns a 2,000 sq ft office in Lavender that has its own in-house editing studio. In terms of work culture, the guiding philosophy seems to be: As long as you get the work done, anything goes. We would rather you fit in with the team and have good work ethic than follow the traditional hiring model that looks only at stellar grades. MR SAM KANG LI and Mr Darren Tan, both 32, on hiring staff who share the same wavelength for their video production agency Little Red Ants Creative Studio, including Ms Yvonne Chong, 22, a producer This applies to anything, from the casual-Friday-every-day dress code to the fact that the firm offers unlimited leave. That means staff can take as many days off as they like, so long as work is submitted on time and other team members are informed of their absence. Director and co-founder Sam Kang Li, 32, who wore shorts and a T-shirt during the interview, says: "Obviously, we monitor to make sure no one takes advantage of the system, but in large part, we don't have hard and fast rules about anything." In terms of hiring, they pick people with whom they share a similar wavelength. Mr Sam, who is single, says: "We would rather you fit in with the team and have good work ethic than follow the traditional hiring model that looks only at stellar grades." The firm's biggest draw seems to be the willingness to offer flexible work schedules, especially for staff entering new phases of their lives. After all, millennials get older too and some of their employees are getting married or having children. This relaxed work culture is undoubtedly why motion graphic artist Ng Keyuan, 29, is still with the company after five years. He joined Little Red Ants Creative Studio after leaving a "traditional, hierarchical company". He says: "I can't imagine going back to an environment like that. "People my age tend to change jobs every two years, but I've really enjoyed the culture of this company and the autonomy I get here to try different things." 26 NOT TOO YOUNG TO HEAD $3.5M CHINA ARM Mr Darren Chen (centre), 37, executive director of Savour Events, who has no qualms appointing Ms Andrea Yeo, 26, as project manager for the events management firm's China office. With them is business development manager Alvin Yip, 26. PHOTO: GIN TAY FOR THE SUNDAY TIMES Five-year-old home-grown events management firm Savour Events is opening its first international office in Shanghai. The person who will be setting up the branch? Project director Andrea Yeo, 26, who has been working with the company for four years. As a project director in Shanghai, she will be handling a budget of $3.5 million. Her boss, Mr Darren Chen, 37, executive director of Savour Events, has no qualms about letting her take charge of the portfolio. This sort of age-blind management is, in fact, what he was gunning for when he started Savour Events in 2012, after leaving a corporate sales position at Formula One. The company, which runs Savour gourmet food festival in Singapore, comprises a millennial team of 11 who handle more than 15 large- scale gourmet events, held in Singapore as well as in places such as India, Hong Kong and China. To manage his team, which averages 25 years old in age, Mr Chen cuts out red tape and improves transparency. For example, he holds weekly "faliure meetings" with his staff, during which they discuss the mistakes that arose in the week and think about ways to prevent them from recurring. I am happy when my team members push their opinions or out-argue me in our meetings... I'm open to such healthy confrontation. MR DARREN CHEN, 37, executive director of Savour Events, who has no qualms appointing Ms Andrea Yeo, 26, as project manager for the events management firm's China office. With them is business development manager Alvin Yip, 26 Mr Chen lets on that shouting matches have happened, especially when a team member felt particularly passionate about something. But these meetings have fostered an openness to failure and a culture of honesty. He says: "I am happy when my team members push their opinions or out-argue me in our meetings. "A traditional boss might take it as insubordination, but I'm open to such healthy confrontation." For Ms Yeo, the open-minded work culture is one she thrives in, especially when she admits that in a traditionally run company, she might not be given such a huge opportunity because she would be deemed too young or inexperienced. Having a young boss running a young team changes the dynamics of things though, she says. "We get along on the same wavelength and things are a lot more open and transparent." For now, though, she is hiding her nerves behind the excitement of helping the Savour business take off in China. She adds: "We've done events there and I'm ready to take our Chinese business to the next level. I've been given a chance, now I'm ready to prove my worth." BEING ON SOCIAL MEDIA IS PART OF JOB SCOPE Ms Rachel Lim (right), 29, on managing the team of millennials behind fast-fashion business Love, Bonito. With her is fellow co-founder Viola Tan, 32. ST PHOTO: MARCUS TAN Don't be surprised if you walk into fast-fashion business, Love, Bonito's spanking new 13,000 sq ft office in Tai Seng and find half the staff surfing social media sites such as Instagram and Facebook. After all, every member of the 47-person team is encouraged to be on social media to better understand the Love, Bonito customer. Love, Bonito's open-plan office, which boasts a 4,000 sq ft warehouse, in-house photo studio and large pantry, was created with the millennial worker in mind. Tables are shared, with no cubicle divisions. In a corner sits a table overflowing with snacks. Propped against a wall is a corkboard titled #LBempowers, covered in colourful post-its highlighting the goals and desires of team members, including wanting to learn Muay Thai and throwing a durian party. This plugged-in and lively work culture has been 10 years in the making for the founders Viola Tan, 32, and Rachel Lim, 29. The third co-founder Velda Tan is no longer involved in the daily operations of the business. What started as a blogshop called BonitoChico, when Ms Viola Tan was a teacher and Ms Lim a student, has morphed into a multi-million- dollar e-commerce business that employs a team of passionate millennials. While one person might be motivated by a pat on the back, another may respond better to a handwritten card. MS RACHEL LIM, 29, on managing the team of millennials behind fast-fashion business Love, Bonito. With her is fellow co-founder Viola Tan, 32 The founders say they choose to hire people close to their age because that is the demographic of its customers. Moreover, a business that mainly markets and sells its products online requires tech- savvy workers, who tend to be young. Because everyone in the office is close in age, the hierarchy is flattened and the atmosphere casual and relaxed. But that does not mean the bosses will not step in when employees cross the line. Two people have been fired. The first was caught stealing merchandise while the other was found constantly gossiping and spreading malicious rumours among the team. Ms Lim says: "We believe in giving second chances, but as leaders, it is also important to set a strong example. We have a trust- based work environment that we are very protective of and it was important that we let it be known that detrimental and toxic behaviour would not be tolerated." Both of them are daughters of taxi drivers and had no background in business. Their journey has been one of trial and error, but experience has made them better at managing teams and people their own age. Ms Lim, who is engaged, says: "While one person might be motivated by a pat on the back, another may respond better to a handwritten card. When working with millennials, I've realised that you can't rely on a one-size-fits-all management style." Ms Tan, who is single and a self- confessed introvert, adds that millennials also enjoy interacting with their bosses because they expect their superiors to be invested in their development. "That has forced me to open up and interact more with my team," she says, "especially when these interactions are ultimately what helps them feel valued and motivated at work."