Friday, December 30, 2011

The Modern Workplace

I think the modern workplace is so varied that the whole objective of productivity is misconstrued.

Basically, I am used to, and still excel in an environment that has a lot of camaraderie, good communication and great teamwork. So, I should technically opt for this as the “ideal working environment”.

But no !

Why?

At one point in time, I used to work well under pressure and used to prefer a fast-paced environment. But now as those bones “creak”, I would opt for a much calmer setting in order to do some of my best work. Now I used to give high priority for dress code and formal environments, but after working in a place that has no “hang-ups” for the business attire – you generally get pulled into the casual environment. This is because, casual environments are more flexible about attire, work hours, and other factors. So personally, I feel that working in an environment where the atmosphere is quite relaxed, friendly and flexible and with a casual dress code to match, brings out the best in you.

Now wait a minute – by casual environment, I don’t mean 6 hour days, with office chair basketball, sushi once a week, shorts and t-shirts, etc., or always having internet access to some great music with a cool speaker system, or an open air refreshment where there is great food always available, or a place with sunlight streaming in from the windows and having state-of-the-art temperature control and designer paintings on the walls !!!

There is no harm in dreaming huh?

So would I be right in saying that my ideal job consists of a workplace where I can grow not only professionally but intellectually. A place where my own ideas are well received and there is room and space for innovative thinking. In other words I would like to have a job where I can "wear many hats" and where my abilities are maximized. And ofcourse, a place where my know-how and work is appreciated vis-à-vis financial gains and economic stability

Although deadlines are fun, it can stress us all out, so it is important to have fun and this can only be achieved in a place that has great camaraderie.

I would also like the option of working from home once a while.

So the bottom-line is that I would like an office with a relaxed atmosphere and a few of the above qualities. In other words, an organization that has some of these qualities and appreciates balance and flexibility.

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

What Is Narcolepsy

Narcoleptics have trouble with their sleeping habits. People with narcolepsy sleep disorder condition suddenly fall asleep while they are watching television or reading and in some cases even while eating or talking.

The main signs of the narcolepsy syndrome are extreme daytime sleepiness, cataplexy while awake, and hallucinations during sleep. Narcolepsy often is the cause of cataplexy, which causes a sudden loss in your muscles especially when you are wide awake. It resembles fainting or a seizure as it causes you to drop whatever you are holding. This may last for a few seconds or minutes followed by strong emotions.

Narcolepsy symptoms are difficult to identify and it can affect both women and men. Narcolepsy sleep disorder signs generally show up during the teenage years. The disorder is rare in children who are five years and below. People who have narcolepsy sleep disorder usually find it difficult to function at school, work or home mainly due to their extreme tiredness and sleepiness.

Narcolepsy is usually mistaken to be a fainting or a seizure disorder, or sometimes classified as lethargy or learning problems for school going children. It is even harder to diagnose the condition when the narcolepsy cataplexy symptoms are mild. There is no cure that has been found for narcolepsy as of date, but therapy along with lifestyle changes can reduce the condition.