They Still Carry Stones

Let My People Go

Moses, Exodus  

In the spirit of Passover, a holiday celebrating liberation, let's delve into a story that echoes ancient wisdom while reflecting on contemporary issues. The narrative starts with Pharaoh observing his slaves:

"Look," said Pharaoh to his ministers, "down there, long rows of slaves chained together to carry one stone each. They are guarded by many soldiers. We have always believed that the more slaves, the better for the state. But, the more slaves, the more we must fear their rebellion. We strengthen our guard. We are forced to feed our slaves well, otherwise, they could not perform hard physical labor. But they are still lazy and prone to rebellion…"

"How slowly they move, and the tired guards do not spur them on with whips or beat even the healthy and strong slaves. But, they will move much faster. They will no longer need guards. The guards will also become slaves. This can be achieved like so. Let it be proclaimed by the heralds of Pharaoh today, before sunset, that 'With the dawn of the new day, all slaves are granted full freedom. For each stone delivered to the city, a free man will receive one coin. Coins can be exchanged for food, clothing, housing, a palace in the city, and the city itself. From now on, you are free people.'"

The next morning, Pharaoh and the ministers once again ascended the platform of the artificial mountain. The scene before them was staggering. Thousands of former slaves raced to carry the same stones as before. Sweating profusely, many carried two stones. Others, who had one, ran, raising dust. Some guards also carried stones. People, considering themselves free because their shackles had been removed, strove to earn as many coveted coins as possible to build their happy lives.

The Pharaoh spent several more months on his platform, watching with satisfaction what was happening below.

Changes were tremendous. Some of the slaves formed small groups, constructed carts, and drenched in sweat, pushed these carts filled with stones to the top. "They will invent many more devices," the Pharaoh thought to himself with satisfaction, "and now internal services have appeared: water and food carriers... Soon, they will choose their leaders and judges. Let them choose: they think they are free, but the essence has not changed, they still carry stones…"

*****

This story mirrors a concerning trend in some of today's most innovative companies. At first glance, these companies appear to offer liberation from the drudgery of traditional work, promising flexibility, perks, and autonomy. However, beneath this veneer of freedom, the essence remains strikingly similar to the bondage of old. Employees, now "free", often work longer hours under the guise of passion and commitment, driven by the tantalizing rewards of bonuses, stock options, and the prestige associated with high-profile projects.

The modern workplace, especially in tech and innovative industries, has transformed significantly. Yet, the fundamental dynamics of labor and reward have only morphed into more sophisticated forms of control and motivation. This transition brings us to an essential aspect of contemporary work culture: the work-life balance. It is crucial not only for maintaining mental and physical health but also for sustaining productivity and happiness.

Here are five tips to help maintain a healthy work-life balance in this new era of perceived freedom.

5 tips for maintaining a work-life balance

Set Clear Boundaries: Just because you can work anytime, doesn't mean you should work all the time. Set specific work hours and stick to them. Communicate these boundaries clearly to your colleagues and supervisors.

Prioritize Your Health: Make time for meals, exercise, and sleep. No deadline should regularly push you to neglect your physical or mental health. Remember, a well-rested mind is more productive.

Learn to Say No: You aren't obligated to accept every project or to attend every meeting. Assess your workload and be honest about what you can handle. Saying no is a crucial skill in maintaining your sanity and your schedule.

Cultivate Interests Outside of Work: Engage in hobbies or activities that have nothing to do with your job. This can provide a refreshing break and reduce the risk of burnout.

Regularly Unplug: Take digital detoxes from work emails and messages during evenings and weekends. This helps create a clear distinction between work and personal time, allowing you to fully recharge.

To Sum Up…

As we recount the story of Pharaoh's slaves, let us not forget that true freedom in the workplace is about more than just removing physical chains or traditional constraints. It's about developing an environment where workers are genuinely respected not just for the labor they provide but as individuals with lives outside their jobs. Only then can we step away from the shadow of the old pharaohs and into a truly liberated way of working. Happy Passover!