The ‘work hard/play hard’ cliché of big companies is antiquated and harmful, leading to toxic workplace cultures that in turn impact the bottom line.
It’s time to drop the antiquated ideas and begin the process of revitalizing the work culture, says workplace culture expert and bestselling author Colin D. Ellis.
“What we need, Colin,” said the CEO, as they leaned back in their chair ahead of a culture workshop I was leading, “… is a good, old-fashioned, work hard/play hard culture.”
This is a mantra that’s been embraced by many organisations, promising a high-octane environment where employees put in long hours and then let off steam with boozy off-site retreats or raucous happy hours spilling out onto pub-side pavements, talking about a ‘job well done’.
Yet beneath the surface of this worn-out cliché lies a troubling truth: it’s a recipe for burnout, disengagement, and a toxic work culture that ultimately harms the bottom line.
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