"We're shifting towards real meaning, honesty and IRL community connection"

"We've been trained for years, if not decades, to go at a certain pace, react fast, and constantly strive for success. But at what cost? Workplace culture can breed constant reactivity, where multiple demands dominate our days. The question is about balance: how do we sustain good energy and personal growth throughout our careers, remaining curious and creative without burning out? We're actual humans needing a more inclusive, balanced approach to live well. That's really been the key theme, regardless of industry or level"

"So in 2026, I'm really looking forward to this growing movement of folks turning their backs on performative culture and putting more healthy boundaries in. And how we're shifting towards real meaning, honesty and IRL community connection. And I'm inviting everyone to experiment with a more conscious and playful approach in how we want to live our working lives. To not run for the bloody bus, or to eat your Pret breakfast baguette over your keyboard in 45 seconds. To call out unreasonable demands."

"To choose not to multi-task; to not wear busyness or constant productivity as a badge of honour. Because guess what, no one is gonna give you a medal for going at that pace or include it in your leaving speech. But your body and mind will thank you for taking more moments of pause, cutting short that path to burn out."

People have been conditioned to maintain relentless pace and constant reactivity, often sacrificing wellbeing for perceived success. Workplace culture frequently amplifies multiple demands, reducing curiosity and creativity and accelerating burnout. A more inclusive, balanced approach centers sustaining energy, personal growth, and humane working rhythms across industries and experience levels. Emerging movements reject performative busyness and promote clear boundaries, honest connection, and real-world community. Practical shifts include experimenting with conscious, playful work habits, refusing unreasonable demands, avoiding multitasking, and taking intentional pauses. Balance requires gradual habit change, with benefits for mental and physical health and long-term fulfilment.

Read at Itsnicethat