When I was counseling leaders in early 2020 on the edges of the pandemic, I found jaded, tired, and strung-out folks. They had real worries about money and the whole entire world – and yet it was people management that was consuming most of our conversations. Years later (you guys, we are coming up on three years?!?!), it's still people and culture that are at the forefront of most of the issues and challenges in the workplace. It's also where much of my advice lives - creating space and grace for the modern workplace to evolve. 

I couldn't count on all my fingers and toes the number of times a leader has said, "I just want people back to work and back in the building." Each time I gently remind them that people never stopped working and in fact, most worked harder than they ever had in their lives. They were/are managing children's schedules, health risks, and in many cases managing to be as productive as ever. I know we have offices that are still emptyish and many of us (extroverts talking to you here) really miss working together. 

What's the Grace Solution?

That answer lives within your organization, your culture, and the specific needs of your workforce. At our office, our work policy is "More often than not in the office or with clients." This carves out space for 2-3 days in the office and 2-3 days at home with some flexibility for personal choice to navigate the latest curve ball life is throwing at you. Some folks choose to come in most days and some hit their more often goal just barely. All of this works because we stay in touch online every day while working - the transparency of noting when we are free and when we are occupied is part of what makes it work. 

As we walk gently into 2023, I suggest leaders approach challenges with grace on their minds.