Absolutely agree with this, and it’s something I’ve always felt deeply about as a leader.
I used to tell my team that I didn’t need to know if they were stepping out to take the dog for a walk, picking up their kids early, or heading to a dentist appointment. I trust them. I trust their judgment, their commitment, and their ability to manage their work. I don’t believe in tracking hours just for the sake of it. What matters most to me is the value they bring and the outcomes they deliver, not how many hours they’re visibly online or sitting at a desk.
Leadership isn’t about controlling people’s time. It’s about giving them the space and support to do great work while living full lives. That’s why I believe so strongly in value-based leadership, not time-based management. When people feel trusted, they work with more ownership, more focus, and more creativity. They’re not trying to prove they’re busy; they’re focused on what actually moves the needle.
The idea that life should pause for work is not only outdated, it’s harmful. Life doesn’t stop because we’re working. Things happen. Kids get sick. Parents need care. Appointments come up. And none of that should require an apology. I’ve always believed that when we make space for life, we get better work in return. People feel seen, respected, and supported—and that shows up in how they show up for the team.
We should not be treating human needs as disruptions. We should be building systems that expect them, honor them, and work around them. Flexibility, trust, and empathy aren’t extras. They are essential parts of how modern teams thrive.
The future of work is rooted in autonomy, not attendance. And the sooner we lead with trust instead of control, the better off our teams and companies will be.