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Last week, we received the announcement—yes, the one we all dreaded about returning to the office in September. I was already anxious about the potentially awkward interactions with over 200 colleagues from various locations. I expected an atmosphere filled with uncomfortable silence as leadership tried to convince us how wonderful it would be to reunite and get back to business as usual. But I was totally unprepared for the ridiculousness that ensued.
“I find it offensive that we are being divided into two groups: the vaccinated and the unvaccinated. After all, the best immunity comes from direct exposure to the virus,” stated a coworker who seems to reject science. Cue the silence. Thankfully, everyone was muted, because I wasn’t the only one who gasped at the sheer audacity of that comment.
For months, the idea of returning to the office had been in the works. Initially, many thought the pandemic would be over in a matter of weeks or, at most, by summer. But that didn’t happen—shocking, right? We faced cancellations and postponements of our in-person work plans, until now.
If It’s Not Broken, Don’t Fix It
Before the pandemic, a few team members worked from home regularly. If we had a doctor’s appointment or felt unwell, we could work remotely without issue. It made sense—so long as the work was being completed, monitoring us like children wasn’t necessary.
While some companies demand a full return, others are considering a hybrid model. But here’s the thing: if businesses managed to survive the last year and a half with remote work, why is there such a push to shove us back into our cubicles?
I genuinely enjoy working with most of my colleagues. However, forcing me back into an office won’t enhance that enjoyment—especially when I have no idea who among them is vaccinated. I can’t read minds, so I have no way of knowing their views on Covid. I used to think that reasonable, educated people understood the severe repercussions of neglecting social distancing and proper health measures. Yet, time and again, I’ve been proven wrong.
It’s Clear That Many Don’t Play Well with Others
Am I referring to children on a playground? Unfortunately, no, but I wish I were. It would be one thing if we could all behave like responsible adults at our workplace, but that seems to be a tall order. My coworker’s comment has prompted me to express my concerns.
Exposure to Covid isn’t the best way to build immunity (because, well, science). But let’s entertain the idea that it’s just their opinion (even though it’s not). This person felt it was important to share their views with over 200 colleagues, many of whom they’ve never met. So why would we expect them to adhere to any health guidelines? Will they maintain social distance? Will they wear masks in shared spaces? The company is relying on the honor system, but do you honestly believe that someone who feels this way will stay home when ill?
Absolutely not. Those concerns won’t remain hypothetical if employees are forced back into the office. Instead, they will consume our thoughts all day—not our tasks or responsibilities. This will lead to a pervasive sense of anxiety, and of course, resentment towards management for creating this situation.
Support Us by Continuing Remote Work
You didn’t hire employees based on their morals or whether they are good people. You employed them because they were the best fit for the job. This is about productivity, isn’t it? Forcing people back into the office to boost morale and efficiency? Spoiler alert: it won’t work.
People can’t focus on work when they’re constantly worried about their safety and that of their loved ones. Call me dramatic, but have you seen the news? The rise in Covid cases due to the Delta variant feels eerily familiar. To be honest, I’m genuinely scared.
Moreover, morale won’t improve. There will always be those who voice their opinions loudly and believe they are correct, regardless of the facts. Employees who disagree with their colleagues’ Covid perspectives will harbor resentment.
This entire discussion stemmed from a single comment on a conference call. Imagine hearing that in person from someone standing just a few feet away from your desk!
Let’s not create divisions in the workplace by pressuring employees back into an environment we’ve evolved past. I would much rather quietly fume in the safety of my own home. Employers, don’t force your employees to choose between their job and their health—trust me, you won’t like the outcome.
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Summary
This article delves into the anxiety surrounding a return to the office after the pandemic, sparked by an insensitive comment from a coworker. It highlights the importance of continuing remote work to protect employee safety and morale, emphasizing that productivity cannot thrive in an environment of fear and division. Employers should reconsider their approach to in-person work to foster a healthy and supportive workplace.
Keyphrase: Fear of Returning to the Office
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