The Benefits of Remote Work

The last few years have seen a massive shift in how the workforce operates. Before the pandemic, remote jobs existed but they tended to be only for certain roles within a company. Now, many workers have discovered that their roles are also suited to a remote lifestyle, or at the very least a hybrid setup.

However, becoming a remote worker is not for everyone. Certain personalities may crave that in-person community that comes with working on-site or in an office. Or maybe your role is not possible to do from home. Either way, moving to a remote role requires some thinking and planning. 

If you are unsure whether you are suited to working from home, then you should consider the benefits of making the switch. Many employees left positions during the pandemic, or were let go, and ended up finding better opportunities that allowed them to fulfill their responsibilities without having to be in the office or on location. Here are some of the benefits of remote work that you could enjoy if you want to make the switch.

Freedom From Micromanagement

Micromanagement is not always a bad thing even though it seems to have a negative connotation. Some people want that direct oversight to help guide them through their tasks and responsibilities. However, if you despise micromanagement from supervisors and you know how to do your job well, then remote work can give you the independence you are searching for. Rather than someone stopping by your desk multiple times a day, they might just send you a quick chat message on whatever platform your company uses, or request a short video call to catch up. This will give you more time to focus on being productive and not having to feel the pressure that sometimes comes with micromanagement.

Work-Life Balance

This concept might be the most popular phrase in the post-pandemic business world. The Great Resignation of 2021 showed both companies and workers that strained relationships were going to be tolerated by employees less. If someone felt undervalued in any way, they could very likely leave for better prospects rather than try to stick it out in a difficult environment. Many workers discovered a better work-life balance when they shifted to remote work. No longer did they spend an hour or two driving to and from work each day. All they had to do was walk downstairs and shut the home office door. Remote work also gave them the flexibility to quickly step out and help with the kids if necessary. Working from home led to a more positive mindset and mental health state for those who felt drained by the monotony of office life. 

Saving Money

Another big positive of becoming a remote worker is the ability to save money. Working remotely is less expensive for a multitude of reasons. First, you won’t have to commute every day, which means less money is spent on gas, wear and tear on your vehicle, or public transportation. Also, you can have food prepared at home for lunch or snacks, which is far cheaper than ordering out or getting food at the cafeteria, even if it means buying some more groceries each week. For parents, daycare may have been a necessity while working on-site, but there is more flexibility when working from home. 

Avoiding the Roads

Let’s be real, commuting can be a nightmare, especially during rush hour. The longer your drive to and from work, the more opportunities there are for accidents. Working from home means you no longer have a commute, which keeps you off of busy roads when thousands of other workers are also trying to avoid being late. You won’t have to worry about getting into accidents with other commuters or commercial trucks, which often leave you injured and with severe financial implications. In this scenario, your only recourse may be to call a truck accident lawyer to try to get your life back on track. If avoiding the roads entirely by working from home saves your life or your financial future by reducing the likelihood of being in a motor vehicle accident, then that alone might make it worth the switch. 

Building an Ideal Workspace

One last benefit of working from home, there there are plenty of others not listed here, is the ability to make your workspace perfect for your needs. Rather than having to work with what space or desk is given to you, you can completely customize your home office to fit your exact tastes. You can use a room with a window that provides natural sunlight all day, elevating your mood. Put up posters that inspire you or make you smile, (just put them on walls that are not seen during video meetings). Have some greenery in your space to bring life to the home office. Go all out with your tech setup by investing in dual monitors, a desk with adjustable height, and a Bluetooth keyboard/mouse. When you work from home, you can create the perfect workspace that fosters better mental health and increased productivity.