The article offers strategies to ease the transition back to work after the Christmas break, emphasizing mindset shifts, planning, creating calming routines, and managing workload to reduce anxiety and boost motivation.
Comedian Dana Carvey has returned to work for the first time since the unexpected death of his son, Dex, from an accidental overdose at age 32. Carvey expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support his family has received and explained that returning to work, specifically his podcast with David Spade, will provide a much-needed break and opportunity to laugh during a difficult time. The family also shared a message of solidarity for those struggling with addiction. Carvey and Spade announced a new spinoff podcast called Super Fly, which will feature video of the pair working on new comedy bits and impressions.
As return-to-work policies gain momentum, many homeowners are choosing to relocate closer to their offices. A September report by Redfin revealed that about 10% of home sellers in the US are looking to move due to these policies. With average office attendance reaching 50.5% of pre-pandemic levels in major cities, the in-person, 9-to-5 lifestyle is making a comeback. Major corporations like Apple, Google, and Tesla have called remote employees back to the office, prompting employees to seek housing closer to their workplaces. However, finding affordable housing in cities like Austin can be challenging, leading some workers to settle in nearby markets.
Donna Rutter is leaving her dream home in Rocky Creek Ranch, Texas, to move closer to the accounting firm she purchased in Fort Worth. With a work style that allowed her flexibility even before the pandemic, Rutter didn't have a central office but traveled to visit clients on-site. As the return to work looms, more individuals may be considering relocating to be closer to their workplaces.
Zoom Video Communications is now requiring employees who live within 50 miles of an office to work in-person at least two days a week, signaling a shift away from full-time remote work. This comes as the company, which saw significant growth during the pandemic, faces challenges with the end of COVID-19 and a decline in its business. Other tech companies, including Meta, Salesforce, and Google, have also emphasized the benefits of in-person collaboration. Despite the push to return to the office, many workers have resisted, leading to lower office occupancy rates and some employees quitting.
Jay Monahan, the commissioner of the PGA Tour, is set to return to work on July 17 after taking a leave of absence due to an undisclosed medical issue. Monahan expressed gratitude for the support he received during his absence and stated that his health has significantly improved. He plans to address any questions and protect the game of golf. Monahan's return comes amidst controversy surrounding the Tour's partnership with LIV Golf and the DP World Tour, which has sparked investigations and criticism.
Martha Stewart criticized remote and hybrid work, saying that America will suffer if it continues. She also criticized France for having August off and called it a "stupid" practice. Stewart wants people to return to the office and is on a "rampage" to get them back. She believes that women should "step it up" and that a work-life balance is elusive. Stewart has been busy during the pandemic, launching a podcast, expanding her CBD business, and creating new TV shows.
Meta, formerly known as Facebook, has announced that it will require its office workers to return to their desks at least three days a week starting in January 2022. The move comes as part of the company's shift towards a hybrid work model, which allows employees to work from home for up to two days a week. The decision follows similar moves by other tech giants such as Google and Apple, as companies seek to balance the benefits of remote work with the advantages of in-person collaboration in the workplace.