All have role in creating work-life balance

SINGAPORE - I agree with the benefits of work-life balance ("Perks for staff who watch the clock"; last Friday). It is important for both employees and employers to have sufficient rest.

The work culture in industries such as law, medicine and accountancy does not support work-life harmony.

I have been a lawyer for 18 years, and have run my own law firm for 11 years. The tight deadlines of our courts and the ever-increasing demands of clients make it difficult for us to watch the clock. These demands and expectations are, in turn, the result of our national work culture.

Any change has to come from the top.

Employers are in a fix if they are expected to create this elusive work-life balance for their employees, and yet meet these job expectations.

I agree that work systems and processes can make a change in the way we work. For this to be effective, the modern workforce must be prepared to change its working methods and adapt to these systems.

Workers must also practise habits such as being punctual, not spending too much time on their smartphones and social media, and avoiding taking long breaks at work. Everyone has a part to play in creating a healthy and effective work culture.

Rajan Chettiar

This article was published on April 22 in The Straits Times.

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