The Advantages of Working from Home

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In recent years, we’ve seen a shift from office-based work to remote setups. The pandemic environment, in particular, has led to an increasing number of positions becoming home-based. While working from home doesn’t suit everyone, neither does commuting to an office each day.

So, which is better? There are many factors to consider, but before you set the alarm for your pre-dawn dash across town, let’s take a look at some of the advantages of working from home.

You Get to Design Your Own Space for Working from Home

One of the best things about working from home is creating your office space in your own style. Whether you work from the kitchen table or have a designated room for your office, you can customize your space to work for you.

The more comfortable you are in your environment, the more productive you’re likely to be. This is true for all professions, whether you’re running a PR company or playing “real money” free slot tournaments on SocialTournaments.com.

You’ll Have Less Stress

It’s true; work is stressful. Although this is not necessarily true in the way you think it is. It’s not the towers of files on your desk or the appointment-filled diary that’s causing your high blood pressure. It’s the 45-minute fight through traffic and dealing with similarly frustrated crowds that does it. In other words, it’s going through all those early-morning frustrations to get to your office that increases your stress levels.

Starting your day with elevated stress is counterproductive and reduces your productivity. Moreover, it gives rise to more stress as the tasks you haven’t gotten to yet pile up. On the other end of the scale is a work-from-home scenario.

Your commute to work at home is a quick stroll down the hallway at a leisurely pace. You have more time to eat breakfast, watch the news, or go for a run before knuckling down in your home office. After that, you’re relaxed and ready to tackle the day.

You’ll Gain Greater Flexibility

Working from home allows you to work around family commitments. For example, you can do the school run or attend a school event. You have the added bonus of being able to run daily or weekly errands in off-peak times. You don’t have to stick to a strict tea break and lunch schedule arranged around other office workers. Instead, you can make a quick snack or cup of tea whenever it suits you.

Having this increased level of flexibility has a positive effect on your balance between your work and private life. It’s also less demanding than sticking to a predetermined schedule. Ultimately, by setting your own schedule, you’re likely to get more done during the day. If you don’t, you can work late or start early the following day, without haggling with security for access to your office.

Fewer Distractions Will Give You a Better Work Environment

For some, a home-based work environment is a lonely place. For others, the peace and quiet of home is a haven of productivity. Without the background noise of phones ringing, coworkers’ conversations, and office banter, distractions are few. Therefore, it’s easier to get your work done efficiently.

The lack of noise creates a better environment for planning and problem-solving, which is perfect if your job involves a high level of either. On the flip side, if you work better in a space with noise and chit-chat, listen to your favorite radio station. No one is there to moan about the music or tell you to switch it off.

You Can Lower Your Expenses

Remote working is a fantastic opportunity to save your pennies. Money that you would usually spend on expenses like gas and parking, you can now use toward that holiday you’ve looked forward to for years.

Additionally, you don’t have to upgrade your work wardrobe constantly when you’re working from home. You only need a few items that you can wear to client meetings or for conference calls. You’ll have more money for all the fun stuff instead.

You Won’t Have to Dress for Success When You’re Working from Home

Banish your office suits to the back of your closet and dust off your sweatpants. There’s no need to power dress when you’re working from home. Comfort is a key factor in productivity.

That said, many people find themselves able to focus better on work when dressed in a professional style. Whether you work best in sweats or professional attire, working from home allows you the freedom to choose whatever outfit you wish.

You’ll Have a More Positive Effect on the Environment

The state of the environment probably wasn’t a factor when you decided to start working from home. But by doing so, you and all other remote workers are doing your bit to help the planet. There are fewer cars on the road, thereby reducing exhaust emissions and their detrimental effects.

You might also be more inclined to reduce the amount of paper you use and your use of air temperature control equipment and lighting. All of these contribute hugely lowering your carbon footprint.

Here’s Your Chance to Choose Working from Home

There are clear advantages to working from home. But depending on the type of person you are, some of these advantages are disadvantages. If you thrive on being surrounded by colleagues, love the banter around the tea trolley, or feel more comfortable in a busy environment, then a remote role isn’t for you.

On the other hand, if you agree with the things we’ve mentioned and can visualize yourself dancing down the hallway to your home office in your PJs, then perhaps working from home will suit you.