An initiative by the Sleep and Cognition Lab, Office of Human Resources, and Office of the President

 

At NUS, we are committed to fostering a work environment where staff feel empowered to be creative, energetic, and adaptable in the face of constant change. Thriving in such a dynamic environment requires a healthy rhythm—one that balances periods of focused effort with time to rest, reflect, and recharge.

 

However, today’s fast-paced workflows and constant digital communication can take a toll on our health, wellbeing, and productivity. With increasing complexity in how we interact, it’s more important than ever to consider what we communicate, to whom, and how urgently a response is needed. Messages sent in haste—especially when we are tired or under pressure—can lead to confusion, miscommunication, and unnecessary follow-up work.

 

Off-hours time spent with family and friends or in quiet contemplation bring needed restoration, and are opportunities to rest, reflect and recharge. Modern work culture, especially after COVID-19 has blurred the boundary between work and non-work times and for many persons not involved in mission-critical roles, this erosion of boundaries can be detrimental to health, wellbeing and productivity. 

 

Beginning this month, NUS will introduce several initiatives to support a culture that is mindful that off-work and vacation time should be respected so that the time we do spend at work becomes potent and productive. Research shows that such initiatives could also result in more time allocated for restorative sleep. 

 

We hope these efforts will make NUS an even more supportive and vibrant place to work—for everyone.

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