Is Working From Home Good For You?

Working from home has become more popular in recent years, especially with the rise of technological advancements in our digital world, and the ways the workforce has changed to adapt to global issues such as the CoronaVirus Pandemic. Nowadays, it is not necessary for many workers to be available in the office full-time to get their work done. Remote jobs are available in various fields including IT related positions, education, customer service and many more. Businesses, whether small businesses or large corporations, are now offering remote job opportunities for people regardless of their location of residence.

Some people love the perks of working from home whilst others find it difficult to function in that setting. There are many aspects to consider before deciding if working from home is right for you. Here are some pros and cons of living as a remote worker. 

The Advantages Of Working From Home

Health Benefits

Recent studies have shown that remote workers are less likely to get sick than traditional office workers. This is due to the reduced risks of being exposed to germs, viruses and bacteria in a closed office working environment. According to Coso’s survey, 42 percent of respondents agree that they eat healthier when working from home compared to when they are working in the office. Moreover, working from home means you do not have to commute on a daily basis and so your stress levels can be reduced by having better sleep and having more time for yourself instead of being stuck in traffic during rush hours. 

More Control Over Your Work Schedule

One of the main advantages of working from home is that you can have full control over your daily schedule. The experts at WorkAtHomeSchool.com explain that this freedom means that you can fulfill more needs in your personal life. For instance, you can work when you are at your most productive, then have more time to spend with your loved ones or pursue your personal interests. Not only that, this freedom can give you the opportunity to be more organized, have more discipline, and foster an independent working spirit. This benefit of remote working is highly appealing for people who have a highly skewed work and life balance.

Your Office Can Be Anywhere 

Many remote workers work from home, but that does not mean that they have to place a bulky desk with piles after piles of paperwork on top. You can design your working space however you like it. For instance, there are people who set up a standing working desk by making use of their kitchen tables or fit in a relaxed and inspirational working space in the corner of their living rooms. Keep in mind that you are not tied to your home office. Coffee shops are many people’s favourite work space and if you are into travel and enjoy the natural beauty of outdoor areas, you have the option to work there too. 

Save Money

According to a survey, the average American spends up to $368 per month on gas so people can save hundreds of dollars if they avoid job related travel. Without a daily commute, you can save a lot of money and time. Another perk of working from home is comfort and freedom when it comes to outfit choices. You can save money by not having to invest in your working wardrobe with suits and expensive shoes. 

The Disadvantages Of Working From Home

Communication Between Colleagues Can Be Difficult

If your work requires communication between you and your colleagues, you can find it harder to shoot quick questions or make easy follow-ups while working at home. As every request, every question and every answer will be made through different communication platforms, there are risks of missed information and messages. Not to mention that it can be time-consuming depending on the normal rate of response from your co-workers. Untimely responses from your colleagues can put great strains on your work performance and productivity as well. 

More Potential Distractions

There are potential distractions anywhere, anytime, whether you are working in the office or at home. However, there are many side jobs that can distract you from your home working tasks including an overflowing laundry basket, a quick run to the grocery store, or even unexpected house guests. It certainly takes a lot of determination and focus to get your job done during your designated work hours and not get distracted.

There are numerous pros and cons when it comes to remote working and whether or not it is a good option for you depends a lot on the kind of person you are. Some people thrive with the freedom of working from home, whilst others find that they are totally unproductive outside of a traditional office. setting. Consider your personal preferences and working style before deciding to move into remote working.