Joachim: (laughing) The biggest challenge is the combination. I really appreciate the flexibility that you’re given as an employee to organize your day. It’s always nice to be in the office, to meet colleagues, and have a stimulating working environment. At the same time, it is really great to be offered to work from home when needed, supporting family life with kids. This versatility really helps with the life puzzle and fitting everything together in a smooth way.
Last year, I participated in an adventure endurance race free of charge thanks to the generous wellness allowance provided each year to all employees in Sweden. It was really challenging - 70 kilometers in 24 hours with a 20-kilo backpack, cross-country. No genders, ages or weight classes. During the race, you get maps that show the checkpoints you must find and where the next station is. At each station, you are faced with different challenges that must be solved before you can move on. It is forbidden to use mobile phones, radio, your own maps or other aids and we made it to the finish line after about 22 hours.
I think it’s the flexibility and the responsibility that make it possible. There is a huge opportunity to have a good work-life balance in combination with excellent career growth opportunities, flexible working hours, and parental leave.