Words, words, words..... all of them uttered in isolation, people on their own crusades to make an impact, to create change!  To what end one has to ask.  All essential points that have so far been addressed in isolation, people operating in a silo fashion to push a cause.

Imagine what it would be like if all merged and were treated as one, no longer in isolation but with a single goal in mind.  That of a sustainable viable future... the creation of a new economy where companies make sustainable profits, individuals  and organisations thrive on the back of an efficient and fulfilled workforce enjoying perfect work/life balance and  the environment for today's and future generations is both enhanced and preserved. Understanding that flexibility, environment, profits, equal opportunity, ageing workforce are all interrelated and irreversibly entwined, with each one impacting the other in a continuous cycle, is what will make the difference.  One cannot change without the other changing.   One cannot be sustainable without the others also being sustainable.  

A quantum leap in thinking and unwavering leadership is required to drive this transition.   Organisations need to consider not only how they can best and most profitably deliver their services to their customer but also how that delivery maintains organisational harmony and a positive working environment as well as reduce their carbon footprint.  

Only when an organisation finally recognises that a well thought through "menu" of workplace arrangements is no longer simply a matter of policy making in ageing workforce or flexible work practices, but moreover a productivity issue regardless of where or when work is done will it move on to a higher sustainable platform of efficiency and effectiveness.  

No longer will words be independently spoken but an organisational structure will emerge that functions on output and productivity, on achievement and creativity, one which allows employees freedom to work from wherever they see appropriate, at a time when they function at their best, regardless of age or gender or situation in life.  Simply to ensure that the responsibilities they have been given are met within the timelines, guidelines and financial constraints of the company.

Wow imagine all that!  How will all that happen I hear you ask?  Firstly we as leaders have to see and believe the vision.  We must take personal responsibility for the change and that requires a great deal of effort and relentless commitment, but the rewards will be great.

Where do you begin and how?  We all have a part to play, organisations, government, individuals all sharing responsibility for driving this new economy.  What is essential is that we understand where we are heading, where we are today and what road we must travel to get to our destination. You may contact the author by visiting www.parttimeonline.com.au