Working from home is becoming an increasingly popular option for many professionals. With the rise of remote work environments, more and more people are choosing to complete their jobs from the comfort of their own homes.
While there are a number of advantages to this arrangement, there are also some drawbacks that should be considered. So today, we’re going to discuss both the advantages and disadvantages of working from home.
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Working from home often gives you greater flexibility within your work schedule, allowing you to work around your other commitments and family life. You can also work from any location, giving you the freedom to travel and still get the job done.
As a matter of fact, increased flexibility is one of the most common reasons professionals are choosing to work from home.
It is important to note, however, that not all remote jobs offer flexibility. I have actually seen quite a few jobs that have super strict rules and scheduling for their remote positions.
But in general, working from home can be quite flexible.
No Commute
Working from home eliminates the need to commute, saving you both time and money. It also means you don’t have to deal with traffic or other delays.
Your “commute” is as simple as walking over to the workspace you have set up in your home.
Potential for Better Work/Life Balance
As mentioned previously, working from home can offer greater flexibility. You may find that you have the freedom to structure your days as you please, allowing you to take more breaks or work hours that are a better fit for you. As a parent, this can be extremely beneficial and it can allow you to achieve a better work/life balance.
Disadvantages of Working From Home
Distractions
Working from home can be distracting, as you may find yourself tempted to watch your favorite television or play with your pets.
It’s also important to note that many work-from-home parents find themselves hiring a babysitter even when they’re working from home because of how distracting the children can be. So before you assume you can cut back on the childcare costs with your new remote schedule, please take this into consideration.
It can be isolating
Working from home means you likely won’t have many opportunities to interact with colleagues in the office. Video calls and chats offer a great way to communicate. But we all know the interaction isn’t the same when you’re not in person.
You may even miss out on things like company-provided lunches, holiday parties, etc. If you enjoy the socialization aspect of the workplace, remote work may not be for you.
However, you may want to consider looking at a hybrid work option if you want to have your cake and eat it too.
Difficult to stay motivated
Without the structure of a traditional workplace, not everyone is able to stay on task. And with the many distractions that can occur while at home, staying motivated could be even more difficult.
Weighing the Advantages and Disadvantages of Working From Home
Overall, working from home has both advantages and disadvantages. It can provide greater flexibility and save you money on transportation costs, but it can also be isolating and more difficult to stay motivated.
Before you decide to make the switch to working from home or back in the office, consider all of the pros and cons. And remember, you can always make the decision to switch back if a work environment is no longer meeting your needs.
Briana Marie is a mental health and financial literacy advocate, and founder of Major League Mommy. In her spare time, Briana enjoys yoga, travel, and spending time with her Husband and two daughters.
