Roadblock to work-life balance: Traffic in Metro Manila

TRAFFIC nowadays is worse than it was before the pandemic. With the ever-growing population in Metro Manila, one wonders how millions of people can fit into such a small space in the city. Consider the noise and air pollution encountered from countless vehicles stuck in traffic jams, the honking from frustrated drivers and the calls of barkers looking for passengers.

How did we end up in this situation, and why does it seem to be getting worse? As commuters, we all share the same sentiment — we hate traffic. Apart from spending an average of two to three hours in traffic each way, most employees need an additional hour just to prepare for work and line up for different modes of public transport. The energy, money and time invested in an eight-hour shift are substantial.

This article delves into the daily struggle faced by working individuals who navigate this situation three to five days a week. It validates that the traffic situation is no longer isolated; it affects everyone. The three most significant losses in traffic are time, money and energy. When we lose these, it impacts our lifestyle, work attitude and behavior toward others.

Employees find it challenging to perform optimally when their first thoughts revolve around commuting difficulties. Have you wondered why some employees rush to clock out five minutes before time? They are racing against fellow commuters to avoid long queues. This daily stress can significantly impact work efficiency.

Upon arriving home, most employees find their family members asleep. Those on a 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. shift often return home after 8 p.m., if lucky enough to make it in less than two hours. The Filipino tradition of family dinners is fading as traffic consumes more hours, leaving little time for family bonding or personal pursuits essential for a balanced life. Traffic not only robs us of time but also steals moments with loved ones, recreational activities and self-development.

In addition to the energy, time and money lost during commuting, there are other consequences often overlooked, such as health impacts, missed opportunities and social ramifications. Human beings are encouraged to engage in daily movement and exercise.

However, as regular commuters, we cannot deny the energy drain caused by commuting, making exercise a less appealing option. The fatigue sets in after hours of sitting during commutes, impacting our physical well-being. This exhaustion often persists when we return home from work, leaving little energy for personal activities or exercise.

Moreover, commuting also leads to missed opportunities for personal development. The mental toll of commuting, coupled with early wake-up times, results in sleep deprivation, limiting our capacity to dedicate time to upskilling or pursuing personal interests. Additionally, the time spent commuting eats into our social lives, as we may skip social gatherings or visits with friends and family due to travel fatigue.

In a time when traffic seems unsolvable, advocating for better transportation modes is crucial for a better quality of life. Employers must understand the commuting challenges their employees face. It’s a call to appreciate employees more and to show understanding when they are late due to traffic.

Employers should consider creative solutions like hybrid work setups, staggered shifts or alternative transportation options. Although these entail additional costs, they improve employee welfare, motivation and productivity, ultimately benefiting the business. While traffic remains a challenge, responsible employers must make the commute bearable for employees, as the traffic problem isn’t going away anytime soon.

It’s important to note that not everyone has access to private transportation, which provides a more comfortable commuting experience compared to public transport options. This disparity further exacerbates the challenges faced by regular commuters, impacting their overall well-being and quality of life. As the modern saying goes, commuting is unpaid work. For some, they see it as the price they pay to keep their work. No employee should feel this way as it profoundly affects their perception of work and work-life balance.

The physical and mental strain of long commutes may result in burnout, job dissatisfaction and a diminished sense of overall happiness. Employers should take into account the struggles of commuting to work when thinking about programs that promote healthier working conditions, ensuring that there are sustainable commuting options for individuals.

Christian Adrian Sioson is a seasoned professional with over five years of experience, currently serving as a business support manager at First Circle. His expertise in customer success is backed by a Bachelor of Science degree in Management of Financial Institutions, providing a strong foundation for his role in managing and enhancing customer relationships. With a comprehensive understanding and a track record of successful customer support strategies, Christian plays a pivotal role in driving customer satisfaction and business growth at First Circle.