The Great Return-to-Office Plot Twist

Photo by Sigmund on Unsplash

I’ve shared that my role has been eliminated and as the noise fades away, I am amazed at the irony and humorous plot twist that is unfolding today January 26th.

We began working from home during Covid and did so for approximately 4 1/2 years

In September 2025, we were told that we would need to return to the office two days per week on Tuesday and Wednesday — not our choice but that of the organization. We were also reminded to be mindful that the expectation is that we are definitely in the office on Tuesdays and Wednesdays unless sick. For the most part anything else would be deemed vacation, whether it was vacation or going to the dentist.

It was difficult to return as most people have at least an hour and a half or more commute ONE WAY! My commute began to stretch to two hours coming home and it only added to the angst. On Monday nights one had to remember to pack a book bag or whatever to carry all their office materials, including laptop and maybe lunch. Nothing different than prior to Covid but the whole world feels different post covid!

Now an ice storm has hit and for today, the campus is closed for safety.

However, the laptops still work. Everyone has Wi-Fi and a workspace set up, which was the requirement during the 4 1/2 years that we worked from home. We may or may not be able to go in on Tuesday. If not, do our two days shift to Wednesday and Thursday ? Will they say everyone should be able to come in on Tuesday because the campus is clear without regard to the reality of where people live throughout the metro area?

The organization decided that my last day is March 2nd. I will no longer be stressed or pressed with these issues. HOWEVER, this is corporate irony at its finest!

Originally published at https://fanae5deepdive.substack.com.