In our postmodern society, the neighborhood is more than just a place of residence. It is a living space, a place to socialize and, for many, a place to work. However, for me, the opportunity to work in my own neighborhood is a luxury denied to me. This situation generates deep and legitimate dissatisfaction.
First, working in your neighborhood significantly reduces travel time. In fact, time spent in transport is time wasted, which could be devoted to more enriching activities. Additionally, long commutes often cause stress and fatigue, which can have a negative impact on our quality of life and our productivity at work.
Second, working close to home promotes work-life balance. It is easier to reconcile work and social life. In addition, it allows you to participate more actively in the life of your neighborhood and build relationships with your neighbors.
For my part, I can say that I have never had the experience of working in my neighborhood. However, I tried several times to send my application to companies in my neighborhood. I admit that I am very disappointed. Is it the fact that I live in one of the most disadvantaged neighborhoods in Montreal? What is the link, you tell me? Are there few businesses that provide jobs for local citizens? Many questions remain unanswered.
Finally, not being able to work in your neighborhood can be seen as a form of exclusion. Indeed, this may mean that our neighborhood does not offer employment opportunities corresponding to our skills and aspirations. This may also reflect territorial inequality, with certain neighborhoods being better endowed with jobs than others.
In any case, the inability to work in one’s neighborhood is a source of major dissatisfaction. It deprives us of many benefits and can even make us feel excluded from our own community. It is therefore essential to promote local development and create employment opportunities in all neighborhoods, so that everyone can have the chance to work close to home. It is a question of social justice, but also of quality of life. It is time for our leaders to take this issue seriously and act accordingly.