Details
Robert Baker
9th January 2022
Insights
I wrote this blog post in 2017, reflecting on the idea of adopting a more Danish lifestyle.
Since the pandemic, I’ve been wondering if the changes to our working habits have brought us closer to that vision.
For me, the past two years have meant more quality time with my family—not just at weekends, but throughout the workweek. Spending more time at home has allowed me to embrace new routines, like regular coffee breaks with my wife, Peloton sessions (still working on that one!), and dedicating Fridays to looking after my two-year-old daughter, Jessica.
That said, it hasn’t been without challenges: the lack of a clear boundary between work and home life, the blurred lines of when the workday begins and ends, and the constant connectivity have been notable adjustments.
Back in 2017, I wrote:
“Perhaps the interim market could provide the kind of flexibility and control over your life and time management while we wait for a social revolution in the UK? Sort of like another populist Scandinavian concept of flat-pack furniture. Could you make like a Swede and construct your own Scandinavian working culture by opting for a career in interim management?”
Are we finally experiencing that social revolution?
Covid has undeniably changed how we view work, life, and social interactions. For some, the office is a thing of the past, while others recognise the need for balance to achieve a sustainable work-life dynamic in this new world.
But are we all living more Danishly, or is it just a select few companies recognising the benefits of flexibility? My sense is that many organisations are still lagging behind. In a fiercely competitive recruitment market, too many companies struggle to attract and retain top talent. If this trend continues, we may see more professionals turning to interim management to secure the flexibility they’ve long sought.
The CFO Practice
At The CFO Practice, we specialise in executive recruitment for senior finance and transformation roles. Whether you’re seeking to embrace a more flexible way of working or need support hiring for your finance leadership team, we’re here to help.
Feel free to reach out to me at rob@thecfopractice.co.uk to explore how we can support your needs—or your journey to living more Danishly.