It’s that look you see in a parent’s eyes come early September no matter where you live. That look that screams relief, peace, and a hope for a brighter future – that being fall, winter and the following spring – as kids go back to school across the country. But are parents going back to the office?
Hybrid work models have prevailed as the norm over the last few years as we emerged from the Covid-19 pandemic. Are they still necessary? Some would argue they are not and even go so far as to suggest that a work-from home culture may ultimately be detrimental to Canada’s overall productivity and economic growth.
Let’s be honest, the economy isn’t good right now. I don’t think I need to provide statistics to prove this claim. Just go to your local grocery store and look for a bag of apples. If it costs more than $5, we have a problem. And it isn’t just apples—basic necessities like bread, milk, and even household goods seem to climb in price every single week. So what can you and I do about it?
There’s quite a lot we can do as individuals to improve our local economies, actually.
Here’s a thought: In the same way you sort your trash or pay your taxes, consider it your civic duty to go back to the office. Especially if you work for the government.
I get that it costs money to get to and from work, but that’s the point. That’s what makes the economy work – when you and I spend money going about our lives; not spending every waking hour at home – working or not.
So in many ways, back to school also means back to business. Back to the office, back to in-person meetings, back to commuting and buying gas and meals on the go. That ripple effect creates jobs, fuels small businesses, and helps stabilize our struggling communities. We can all do our part to kickstart our economy. Mississauga needs you. Canada needs you, too.
