Work–life balance
Hello everyone! Today we're going to talk about something that affects almost all of you sooner or later: work arrangements. Some people work in a traditional office, some work from home, some are freelancers, and some have part-time contracts. But what are the real advantages and disadvantages of each? We're going to read a text about four people – Ronan, Jo, Marcus, and Lily – each with a very different working style. 🌤️ Warm-up: New words Before you read the main text, match the words and phrases (1–10) with their definitions (A–J). 1) to clock in / out 2) pro-rata basis 3) idle chit-chat 4) co-working space 5) to bounce ideas off 6) left to our own devices 7) wearing me out 8) concession 9) downside 10) distractions A. A negative or unpleasant aspect of something B. Things that stop you from paying attention C. To record the time you arrive at and leave work D. Paid a proportion of a full salary (e.g., 3/5 of full pay) E. Casual, unimportant conversation F. A sha...