The workplace has shifted dramatically, reshaping our views on the traditional 9-to-5. Here’s a look at how the office landscape is evolving.

This Week In Your Wallet: A New Chapter

At a brunch celebration for my friend Gwen’s birthday (four friends, sparkling drinks, an outdoor table at a trendy venue), we discussed the topic of returning to the office. Three of us admitted we were somewhat eager to return, maybe not every day, but ready to reconnect with colleagues. The fourth friend? She's already back in the office.

However, we might be in the minority. According to a report from the Wall Street Journal covering the latest Women In The Workplace study by McKinsey & Co. and LeanIn.org, two-thirds of women and 57% of men prefer remote work for at least three days a week. The implication? Many are hesitant to return to the office altogether. Lori, a divorce attorney nearby, noted that younger associates at her firm are particularly resistant to coming back, citing increased productivity while working from home.

Yet, where does productivity end and burnout begin? The Women In The Workplace study, which surveyed 65,000 North American employees, reveals that burnout is escalating as the pandemic continues. About 42% of women reported feeling burned out “often” or “almost always” in 2021, up from 32% in 2020. Men are also experiencing higher burnout rates this year, with 35% affected compared to 28% in 2020. This year's findings also indicate that one in three women (versus 27% of men) are contemplating leaving their jobs, an increase from one in four women last year.

Imagining how our favorite characters from SATC would adapt to this new work environment is intriguing. I envision Charlotte managing a chic version of Everything But The House while juggling the challenges of motherhood. Miranda would likely be a senior partner at a law firm offering generous parental leave. Carrie, who seems happy with Big (despite some uncertainty), would have anticipated the decline of print media and launched a successful independent version of TheCut. And what about Samantha? I can't bear the thought of her fading away like Donna in Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again.

Seeking Remote Opportunities with Equity

If you belong to the group that prefers never to return to the office, you’re in luck. LinkedIn has just unveiled its 2021 Top Startups list, highlighting companies offering the most sought-after benefits. As Lindsay Mott points out, these perks include work-from-home stipends, enhanced mental health support, virtual training, and more. Additionally, out of 50 startups, 33 are actively hiring for remote positions, with many having numerous roles available. Explore the opportunities.

In-Person Should Mean Off Zoom

One sure way to deter those who want to return to the office is to fill their schedule with Zoom meetings. This Washington Post article confirms that it’s happening. Despite a decline in Zoom's growth as the pandemic eases, the company still reported a billion-dollar quarter ending in June. So what can workers do when the cafeteria is closed and social distancing is recommended? Small group walking meetings outdoors could be refreshing. For now, though, a good pair of earbuds or noise-canceling headphones is essential.

Considering Bitcoin for Your Portfolio?

This is a topic worth pondering — and I bet you’ve been considering it too. Join me in exploring this piece by Yahoo Finance Editor In Chief Andy Serwer with Max Zahn. Rather than debating the risks of crypto, they question whether you should have some exposure in your investment portfolio and, if so, what type and how much. The premise is intriguing: it might be riskier to not invest in crypto than to take the plunge. Fifty years from now, your grandchildren could be dismayed that you didn’t buy Bitcoin when it was around $32,000 (or even $25,000 next week). For reference, it closed at over $42,000 on Monday.