"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
31 Jan 2023
Work-life balance has become a crucial issue in the modern workplace, especially with the rise of technology that blurs the lines between personal and professional time. To address this, a growing number of startups in India are incorporating "quiet time" into their workdays, offering employees the chance to recharge and reduce burnout.
One such startup is Wakefit, which has introduced a "Right to Nap" initiative, during which employees' calendars are blocked for a daily 2 pm- 2;30 pm nap or break. This move is aligned with the company's vision of maximizing comfort, and employees can choose to nap in the office nap room or take a walk, meditate, or do any other activities to recharge. The company has also launched no-meeting days, which the co-founder hopes to roll out across the organization eventually.
Similarly, B2B ecommerce market Solv has a daily "no meeting" hour for employees, whether working from home or office. This policy puts the responsibility on managers to prioritize the well-being of their teams, encouraging them to take a break from the constant accessibility of technology.
These initiatives show a positive shift in the way companies view the mental health and well-being of their employees. By offering quiet time, napping facilities, and no-meeting hours, companies are not only investing in their employees' wellbeing but also in their productivity levels. A well-rested and refreshed worker is more likely to be motivated and productive, leading to better outcomes for the company as well.
The rise of office napping and no-meeting hours is a much-needed change in the corporate world and a step towards a healthier work-life balance.