IN a pre-pandemic context, some lived to work while others worked to live. In today's hybrid work setting, work and life events often take place in the same space. As boundaries are blurred, work becomes life for many, resulting in an actual or perceived need to be "always on". This state of background anxiety has continued to linger as Singapore now returns to a default state of working from home as Covid-19 infections continue to rise.

Blurred lines are a major factor behind dissatisfaction, poor mental well-being and burnout in employees. In fact, a recent survey by Employment Hero revealed that Singaporeans are the unhappiest workers in the world, driven by the lack of support from employers for their well-being.

While Covid-19 has driven the fastest workplace transformation in modern times, there is a window of opportunity now for leaders to future proof their hybrid work models by reexamining workplace practices holistically to ensure a healthy, engaged and productive workforce.