Setting the equation right
A fresh approach in how we work could help Malaysia forge ahead
NEW Malaysia is just one month shy of being a year old, and reports of a sluggish economy and an underperforming equity market do not do justice to the sweeping changes the country is currently going through. International ratings agency Moody’s outlook that economic growth could accelerate after next year on the back of a recovery in global economic performance is, however, comforting. But how do we as a nation respond to the negative former? Do we battle it out head on? Or, we could do it in style, growing with the economy every step of the way with new perspectives, and, of course, providing constructive feedback to the government to enable it to continue with its reforms and addressing the needs of Malaysians.
In today’s fast paced environment where things are constantly on the move, opportunities abound. One may say that the world of work has morphed into a 24-7 cycle with little room for rest, respite and recreation. This is perhaps due to technology which has made it possible for us to work from anywhere, anytime. But technology has also resulted in an unbalanced equation — we spend hours drawing up strategies, but we forget to eat, we don’t sleep enough, and we browse for hours on the Net — do we ever really switch off from work? So while technology has made our tasks easier, the life part has suffered. The equation needs to be set right again. While we strive to be productive, we must also make living a priority. A higher output and outcome, but without compromising the ideals. Perhaps revisiting the work smart concept to achieve a work-life balance.
Working smart, a previous era’s creation, boosts productivity, creativity, and saves precious energy for the things that really matter, like a family, getting enough sleep and living healthier. Malaysia is an ageing society. The people need to be working in style and comfort. It’s striking a balance, something that we should be constantly seeking. The economy cannot grow in isolation, but neither can social development. Our work routine, which should be discussed more, is one area where we can make a difference. Look at the most productive hours; office hours should perhaps start early — there is plenty of science to support that being an early bird can bring one success in work and life. Research has also shown that early birds are happier and more productive than night owls. What about shorter or flexi working hours? Germans, for example, spend less time at work than most of their fellow Europeans, an average of 34.9 hours per week. The RND German media group cited data from the labour ministry which said Germany’s labour productivity was 27 percentage points above the European Union’s average last year.
Time and tide wait for no man, so says English poet Geoffrey Chaucer — and time is of the essence here. With just a few months into 2019 we are already beginning the second quarter. It is time to take stock of what we have achieved as a nation thus far. For Malaysia to join the league of developed nations, not only must it be robust health-wise, it must carry with it humanistic and sustainable policies for it to weather the challenges.
Our work routine, which should be discussed more, is one area where we can make a difference.