As it turns out, shifting from a full work-at-home schedule to a full work-from-work schedule isn’t good for us on many levels. Here’s another to add to the list.
As you may know, our brain is a highly adaptable organ. It is constantly changing at a physical level, a phenomenon known as neuroplasticity.
Since we’ve worked from home for a while, our brain got used to the quieter atmosphere; the vibrations from the air conditioner, the faded noise from passing cars, and the birds chirping in the trees. We are more generally productive in this environment because of a lack of distractions.
Now, to suddenly force that brain into a loud office, with other people’s phones ringing, office chatter, and constant keyboard tapping, and you become very easily unfocused. Your brain just cannot digest all these noises effectively.
Even before COVID, as offices shifted to open-space cubicles, introverts like myself had a tough time with the openness. I usually needed to wear headphones and listen to music to drown out all the buzz.
The transition from the quietness of home to the loudness of the open office hurts us more than ever before.
So, as more and more of us are being forced back to the office, what can we do? For starters, the responsibility shouldn’t be entirely the employees. We need to demand a flexible hybrid approach, one that allows you some measure of control over your schedule.
The takeaway
A hybrid work model has certain advantages. First, it respects the neuroplasticity of our brains. Secondly, it acknowledges the value of in-person interactions. Lastly, it provides flexibility so you can still adjust your schedule (and physical location) as desired.