There might be office structures about meeting times, ways of interacting online and distributing tasks, but everything in between is up to the individual to develop and interpret on their own. In our Dayshift research we heard insights from respondents who are taking control of their work time in a way that suits them best.
Taking control can mean simple activities, such as deciding to turn off notifications and taking a break to play guitar for a few minutes before the next task or meeting. Booking lunch with a friend or relative just to get a breath of fresh air. Cooking up what feels like a four star Michelin meal in your own kitchen. Or taking a quick nap at a time when energy is felt lacking.
These are all examples of giving ourselves permission.
Simple gestures, but often hard to make happen on a consistent basis. Permission to work at home in a way that feels good for us in the moment.
Design in context: How could we give to people the personal guidance they need to give themselves permission to work in a way that feels personal?
