While it is true that staying late at work has developed into a culture in today's working society, most people tend to work longer hours for another important reason: job security. Regardless of race, age and gender, I believe this applies for workers around the world.

Many think, especially in the last few years, that if they do not work late, their bosses might think them as lazy and replace them. This mindset needs to be changed.

In my previous appointment, my boss expected me to work long hours on weekdays and even during weekends, despite having finished my work on time. My efficiency was exploited as a result.

My new appointment allows me much-needed flexibility. I am allowed to take time off anytime I want as long as my work is done and urgent projects are settled beforehand. I am also not required to work during weekends, unless I volunteer to do so.

My quality of life has improved as I am now able to spend more time with my family and developing other interests, like photography, internet, etc.

People who stay long past office hours should not necessarily be construed as hardworking and driven because they may not be that productive after all. Shouldn't companies evaluate employees' performances based on their creative thinking and efficiency rather than their willingness to slog long hours?

Companies should be educated properly to eradicate this worthless culture that we are following. It should be realised that working smart is working right. To end off, I feel that only by having a work-life balance can the staff produce more during normal working hours.

The author is an avid critic of people with an imbalanced work-life composition as it had robbed him of something precious to him. He strongly believes in family values and quality personal and social time, but he too believes in work efficiency, quick thinking and ruthlessness at work.