Post-lockdown represents many positives – freedom, reconnection, variety – but for many, it also brings anxiety and worry. Concerns over infection rates, feelings of social inadequacy and mental health problems are some contributing factors to a seemingly counterintuitive sense of apprehension at the thought of re-entering society. How we can navigate these feelings in order to reconcile with post-lockdown life?

As more offices begin to open and businesses encourage workers back to their desks, some employees are reluctant to relinquish their working-from-home lifestyle. Which new habits in our work and personal lives nurture a more purposeful existence? In short, what will permanently change, and what will be disregarded? 

This is our edit of the global conversation on purpose. 

• Life, business and the pursuit of purpose: why it’s so important for companies to have purpose (Forbes). 
• Anxious about reentering post-lockdown society? You’re not alone (The New Yorker). 
• How a corporate led scheme is offering financial incentives in order to reduce deforestation rates (The Financial Times). 
• What makes a workplace toxic, the warning signs to look out for and how to transform a culture of toxicity into a culture of trust (Raconteur). 
• Why taking a break often ensures higher levels of productivity (The Economist). 
• A new living installation forces audiences to confront climate change head on with this indoor, living forest (Fast Company). 
• The importance of prioritising mental health at work, and steps to take in order to do so (The New York Times). 
• The workers who are prepared to quit rather than return to the office: is remote work here to stay? (Bloomberg).