London professional rejects five-day office work mandate

A London-based Indian professional has rejected a five-day return-to-office mandate, citing high commuting costs and stagnant wages. In a viral LinkedIn post, they expressed frustration over the financial burden of office work amid rising living costs. The individual, now freelancing, criticized the lack of perks for Gen Z compared to older generations. They highlighted the challenge of affording commuting expenses while participating in virtual meetings, questioning the value of traditional office work. Their post has sparked a broader debate on return-to-office policies, especially in high-cost cities. Many younger professionals are prioritizing flexibility and work-life balance, prompting discussions on the relevance of traditional corporate structures.