Since starting my full-time job in November, I am constantly pondering all aspects of working in the real world. From outfit choices to commuting, I have an opinion on most everything. Within the last month, my friends and I were discussing our typical work day. Of course, the wheels in my head started turning about what the normal work day looks like. Points I’d like to bring up for discussion:
1. There’s No Such Thing As Normal: Yes, the “normal” workday used to be from 9am until 5pm. But that is a thing of the past. With telecommuting and more flexibility, people work around their schedules not the company’s. Honestly, that’s the best way to ensure productivity and success.
2. Define Your Limits: My goal is to be at my desk no later than 8:30am and to leave no later than 6pm. That’s what works best for me, not everyone. That time span changes if I work from home. Know yourself, when you’re most productive and when you have to shut it down.
3. Each Industry is Different: Teachers clearly work different hours than Accountants. PR professionals are typically “on-call” like doctors in case major news breaks. You must see the differences and respect them. Just because your friend’s day ends at 5pm doesn’t mean yours will. You’ll eventually figure out how to work with each other’s conflicting schedules.
4. Forget the Fear: You are allowed to leave at 5pm if your work is done. That was something I absolutely had to get over. Just because others are still working doesn’t mean you have to. Also, those other people might not have been at their desk at 8am like you were.
With new technology and workplace flexibility, the normal workday is a thing of the past. In reality, each day should and probably will be different. What does your typical day look like? Do you agree with the points above?
Does your week look like this?!
Tagged: Adjustments, Balance, Flexibility, Limits, Normal, Productivity, Time, Work Life Balance, Workday
The Rockstar Diaries 
Nice post, Alex. I liked your first point; there really isn’t much of a “normal” now, especially in the PR/marketing/SM world. As a solo pro, I work “after hours” and on weekends, sometimes. Making your own normal is what is important.
I completely agree Jason. It really is about your schedule and what works best for you, not anyone else. Thanks for reading and sharing your thoughts!