The Australia and New Zealand School of Government (ANZSOG) has identified a range of work practices PS staff can adopt in 2021 to make it a more rewarding and less demanding a year than 2020.
In a statement, ANZSOG said that last year was a difficult one for many public sector workers who had to work more intensely as they tackled the huge policy and implementation challenges of the pandemic.
“That was without taking into account the challenges of working from home, and looking after children,” the School said.
“While we are not out of the woods yet, this is a great time to rethink priorities or plan a return to projects that were set aside.”
It said last year’s plans might have had a nasty encounter with reality, but that did not change the fact there was always a need to plan.
“Think about where you want to be this time next year; talk to the people who can help you achieve it, and set some tangible, achievable goals,” it said.
ANZSOG said 2020 emphasised the importance of communications — “both for Governments looking to educate and persuade citizens and for organisations trying to maintain a common purpose in the face of change”.
“Many organisations used new tools to help teams work remotely, and lifted their standards of communication. Others thought more deeply about what the public needs to hear from Government,” it said.
The School urged workers not to let that energy and innovation go to waste and slip back into bad old habits.
“Remind yourself why you work in Government or policy work. Find a quote or mantra that captures your passion for why you turn up to work each day,” it said.
“If you and your team achieved great things last year, set up some permanent reminders. Stick them to your screen or cubicle, and remind yourself each morning why you do what you do.”
ANZSOG said the coming year would present its own difficulties “and you’ll be in better shape to tackle it if you spend some time getting physically and mentally ready”.
“Technology has made it harder to switch off from work, but you’ll be happier and more productive if you set boundaries, know when to say ‘no’ and make time for family, friends, exercise and anything else that brings you joy,” the School said.
