For the past few decades, Americans in particular are spending more time at the office than ever before, and more time away from their families. Americans also typically have access to the least attractive maternity leave options, often limited to the twelve weeks required by law and usually unpaid, except for whatever vacation time the employee has saved up prior to leave. Companies were scaling back on the number of paid holidays and vacation days, increasing mandatory overtime requirements, and maintaining higher expectations. We became a society of workaholics.



Today, the trend seems to be shifting. Professionals are demanding more flexible working arrangements as part of an increased desire for more work-life balance. We hear talk in the news about the rushed pace of the American lifestyle and the health risks that seem to be connected. Environmental concerns are causing state governments and private employers to offer telecommuting options to employees, for a few days or even the entire workweek. The focus of family is again becoming an important staple in the American lifestyle, and people are choosing quality family time over demanding careers.

So how can you get a flexible position if you don't already work for an employer who is offering flexible work arrangements? You can negotiate with your current employer, seek out a new, flexible position, or create your own flexible career. Many people already work in careers that can be conducted at least partially off-site.

If you would like to stay with your current employer, try creating a detailed proposal outlining the benefits to your employer of allowing you to work atypical hours or work from home. Be sure to include information about your increased productivity as well as information regarding any potential savings your company would gain by allowing you to telecommute.

If you are interested in a new career that might allow you more flexibility, you can do one of several things. You can seek out an opportunity of interest to you, and apply to the company making your desire for flexible scheduling or telecommuting option known in your cover letter or resume. You could also seek out opportunities already designed for flexible arrangements. The internet is a goldmine for searching for unique career opportunities. Try searching job boards or even general search engines for words such as, ?virtual,? ?remote,? ?telecommute,? ?flexible,? combined with keywords related to your desired position.

If you want a new opportunity with maximum flexibility, you might want to consider starting your own business as an independent consultant. If you have work experience, education, and specialized skills and knowledge, you're probably qualified to be an independent consultant in your field. Being your own boss allows you the ultimate flexibility, but keep in mind that being an independent consultant requires time, dedication and self-direction. While it's nice to be able to decide to take a day off on a whim, you have to remember that if you aren't working, you aren't making money. If you believe you have the qualifications and the drive for independent consulting, a great place to start would be consulting an employer of record organization that handles back-office support, to see if that arrangement might be beneficial to you, or if setting up your own business entity is the right direction for you.

Flexible work is the wave of the future, and a variety of options are now available to professionals who desire greater work-life balance. Start researching today to see how a great flexible working arrangement might be in your future.