A few years ago many people just accepted long hours, but the pandemic and remote work made the line between office and home blur. Younger workers now talk more openly about burnout and they expect flexible hours. It is not perfect everywhere, but the conversation is louder.

I think they share responsibility because they set deadlines and the atmosphere in the office. They cannot control everything at home, but they can offer fair breaks and support when people struggle. A bad manager can make mental health much worse, so the company is partly to blame in those cases.

Some are ambitious and they want a promotion, while others are afraid to say no because they think the boss will be unhappy. In some places overtime pay is very attractive. Other people work long hours because the job is understaffed and they feel responsible for the team.

They could set clearer limits on maximum weekly hours and they could make sure the rules are enforced for small companies too. Training programmes could help businesses work smarter instead of only longer. Tax breaks for companies that offer flexible systems might also help.

I do not think perfect balance exists every week because life throws surprises, like illness or extra deadlines. People have to make reasonable compromises, but that does not mean they should give up. Small improvements still matter.