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The internet has turned millions among us into workaholics, lugging around our laptops, smartphones ready at a moment's notice to tackle the latest digital chore. The barriers between work and family are collapsing before the relentless demands of algorithms.

8 Comments

Washington Post columnist Robert Samuelson

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8 Comments
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At 5pm, close the laptop and walk away.

Cell phone business "quiet time" is from 5pm to 7am except for family calls. This hasn't been an issue in over 20 yrs. Obviously, there are some after hours work events that need to be covered. Anything "last minute" is declined.

Once you have managed expectations a few times, it isn't an issue going forward.

I'm in an industry that has a huge shortage of qualified people and over 10 yrs of training/experience is needed to become entry level. I'm far away from production support, though deployment of new systems or system upgrades can happen only during overnight, weekend, periods. I'm seldom needed for those and never actually have to go into work.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

Workaholics will find a way to work no matter what. If the technology was not available they would just stay at the office. The problem here is that it gives bad employers a tool to try and pressure employees into working during their downtime. I would like to see a 'right to disconnect' law brought in like the one in France which protects people who don't look at work emails outside of work.

2 ( +2 / -0 )

It's the work phone that is worse. The laptop gives you the chance to work somewhere else, such as from home. The phone and its constant supply of emails is what drags people down and makes them always on call.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

Well yes but at the end of the day it’s just a piece of electronic equipment. You should still have the choice to turn the thing off and throw it in a cupboard and spend the weekend with your family.

4 ( +4 / -0 )

The Internet or "algorithms" are not demanding anything.

If anyone is working new hours against their will, it is because of their employer.

2 ( +3 / -1 )

I can work at home in bed. What's the problem with that?

2 ( +2 / -0 )

Hmmmmmm........  Truth is lots of us LOVE being glued to smartphone or laptop.  I am able to ignore them when family or private life needs or when if feel like it.

3 ( +3 / -0 )

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