The way we work has changed forever, with remote work leading the way. As employees are no longer tied down to the traditional 9-to-5 grind, more and more are realising they have the freedom to work however they want. But this isn't just about having a better work-life balance; it's also about making workplaces more inclusive.

Embracing the work-life blend

First up, let's talk about why people are changing to more flexible work arrangements. 85% of respondents said flexible working has allowed them to better integrate their work and personal lives in a way that works for them as individuals. For many, it's all about achieving that elusive work-life blend. No longer constrained by rigid office hours or soul-crushing commutes, people are discovering that they can seamlessly integrate their professional and personal lives in a way that feels authentic and fulfilling. 

"It's giving me the freedom to adjust my work schedule and environment to best suit my needs and maximise productivity." 

Kandia Appadoo, Communications Manager
Part-time & fully remote 

"After my second child my employer took away my hybrid working which meant I was commuting to central london 5 days a week and seeing them 1h a day. I was miserable. Covid hit and I was forced to be with them all the time and I realised how much I was missing and how the job wasn't worth it."
Amy Cohen, Career and Life Coach
Fully remote

A new normal for working parents

For working parents especially, flexibility has been transformative. Over two-thirds said it has helped them to be more present and involved with their children, without sacrificing career progression. No longer forced to choose between being a good employee and a good parent, they can excel in both roles thanks to the trust and autonomy flexible working brings.

"Having a young family whilst maintaining my role at work has really only been possible with the flexible hours and support I have received from my management and workplace." -
Sarah, Business Development Executive
Hybrid working 

"I am a young mom of a toddler and a military wife too. When I had my first baby, there was practically no legal firm that could offer me the flexibility I needed . Coupled with the military lifestyle, moving around was common and so it was difficult setting into a role .

I  had to take some time off and then I discovered flexible working. I stumbled upon Flexa on Linkedin and couldn't believe how far reaching flexible working could be since it is not rampant in West Africa.  I have not reached my dream target but flexible working has changed my life .

I am here for my toddler and family but don't have to sacrifice my personal development. I take baby steps but it's worth it. I don't have to worry about dressing up every morning, rushing out and rushing in tired or not being able to manage my schedule. Most people don't know I am working because they don't see me leave every morning in the traditional setting. I am able to  contribute to my family, take care of m'y wants and pursue my dreams . I have also inspired other young moms. I know that it's possible to still pursue your goals as the power of the internet and flexible working is amazing."

Transforming health and wellbeing like never before

But it's not just about juggling family life. Flexible work has also given people the freedom to prioritise their physical and mental health like never before. From those managing chronic illnesses to others simply seeking a more balanced lifestyle, the ability to work in a way that suits them has been nothing short of revolutionary.

"I live with severe migraine attacks (ca. 1 per month) and I need to make sure I exercise and walk regularly, take time for yoga and relaxation techniques and eat regularly to stay healthy and reduce/monitor the attacks." 

Carla Pianese, Senior Project Manager
Fully remote 

"I have an auto-immune syndrome, so working flexibly helps me reduce stress levels, improve my eating habits, prepare my own meals and I have time to exercise every morning."

Andreia Lopes, Performance Marketing Manager
Remote-first 

"Flexible working has positively impacted my overall well-being since freedom is crucial to me. I work happier than ever!" 

Laura Grajales, Copywriter
Fully remote working

"It has meant I can prioritise health needs alongside work without having to waste time commuting, particularly useful when going through fertility treatment. Flexibility means the team can meet and make it useful and otherwise get on with being productive at home."
Marketing Manager
Hybrid working

A world of possibilities

Nearly a third of people said flexibility has allowed them to relocate to a lower cost of living area, travel more, or even live abroad - things that would have been impossible with a traditional office job. The ability to work from anywhere has opened up a whole new world of possibilities.

No longer tied down to a specific location, people are embracing the freedom to live and work wherever their heart desires - whether that's a quaint Spanish town or a far-flung tropical paradise. The ability to design a lifestyle that aligns with their values and aspirations is a dream come true for many.

"I am able to live in a smaller city in Spain, with close friends and family close by and still make a positive impact through my work in an international startup that ordinarily would not have an office space here." 

Sam, Employee Experience Manager
Fully remote 

"Now I have the chance to travel to my hometown, see my parents, and travel and work from any place in the globe."

Georgia Vasileiou , Community Manager
Remote-first

A happier, healthier, more productive workforce 

Unsurprisingly, all of these benefits have led to a more satisfied, loyal, and productive workforce. When people feel trusted and empowered to manage their own time and energy, they show up as their best selves. Creativity flows, engagement soars, and the bottom line reflects the positive impact of a happy, healthy team.

"It feels great to change paradigms. Humans are all different and have different rhythms, so allowing everyone to work at a time that works for them is groundbreaking." 

Laura Grajales, Copywriter
Fully remote 

"Flexible and remote working definitely has improved my overall wellbeing." 

Claudia Kozeny-Pelling, Marketing Translator & SEO Content Writer
Fully remote

Advice for aspiring flexible workers

We asked what advice those who have seen the impact of flexible working would give to others. Here is what they had to say:

"Create your own boundaries. Be clear on when you are available and when you are not."

Project Manager

"I'd recommend drawing up a (flexible) work schedule that suits you. For example, if you're more focused in the morning, prioritise working on your most important tasks then." 

Claudia Kozeny-Pelling, Marketing Translator & SEO Content Writer
Fully remote

"I now help people who are extremely unhappy in their careers, suffering burnout and anxiety from work. I've met thousands of people who want work life balance so I think we should accept as a society that it's what we need as humans to be happy." 

Amy Cohen, Career and Life Coach
Fully remote 

The future of work is flexible 

At the end of the day, the future of work is undeniably flexible. Companies that fail to offer flexible arrangements risk losing top talent to more forward-thinking competitors. The stories shared in this blog serve as a powerful reminder that work is just one part of a fulfilling life - not the be-all and end-all. By trusting employees to manage their own time and energy in ways that work best for them, everyone wins. Productivity soars, innovation flourishes, and people are able to show up as their best selves both in and out of the (virtual) office.