Top 5 Work From Home Pros And Cons

Introduction

I’ve been working from home for nearly 5 years now, sometimes in full, sometimes in more of a hybrid model.

To be honest, it’s not all plain sailing being 100% remote. I do have a preference towards a hybrid model, I’m currently on a 1:4 office to wfh schedule and it suits me down to a tee.

Let’s unravel the wfh pros and cons in both scenarios.

Work From Home Pros

The work from home model, in my opinion, provides these top 5 benefits:

1. Reduced Commute Stress:

Living in London, I hate the commute, it takes up about 3 hours of my day wedged on a crowded train next to a smelly armpit. Trains are often delayed making the process even more frustrating, it’s expensive and that time can be spent a lot more productively, writing blog posts for example. 😃

2. Flexibility And Work-Life Balance:

Probably my most favourite justification. Those 3 hours commuting I just mentioned. Getting them back to be with family/friends, even just to do house chores, get a haircut or exercise. If you use your extra hours and flexibility well it can do wonders for your overall wellness and work-life balance.

3. Cost Savings:

Commuting costs? See ya! My commuting costs were about $50/£40 a week + eating out at lunch from the office, this cost was setting me back around $300/£250 a month. Homemade lunches are a lot more cost effective.

4. Increased Productivity:

This one can depend in the first instance on your home life situation. I live alone so distractions are minimal. Whereas in the office, someone always fancies a chin wag (chat) when you’re deep in a spreadsheet.

I’m definitely more productive at home (especially with those aforementioned 3 hours back) If you have pets/the kids are home you might be distracted work wise, but productive time could also mean spending time with them too.

5. Work Environment Personalization:

Slight curve ball, but I love being able to cater my work environment to my own needs in a way more personlized way. My coffee warmer would probably be a fire hazard in the office, and the contentious room temperature is my call now, mwuhaha.

via GIPHY

Work From Home Cons

What about the top 5 work from home disadvantages:

1. Isolation And Loneliness:

For some, especially If you’re more on the extroverted side wfh can lead to loneliness and a lack of belonging. 

2. Communication Challenges:

Misunderstandings and lack of cohesion can arise from working from home. The personal touch or in person collaboration is hard to replicate over Zoom/Slack etc.

3. Distractions At Home:

The previously alluded to pets and kids, or even the partner! Noisy neighbours have been something I’ve had to contend with too. If you’re not disciplined, cat videos could take over your life…

4. Technology Issues:

Reliance on technology introduces the risk of technical glitches and connectivity issues, a reliable internet speed and knowledge of home working security measures along with your company’s security policy are useful.

5. Blurred Work-Life Boundaries:

Establishing clear boundaries between work and personal life can be challenging, difficulty switching off and the immediacy of work being available just by logging on to your laptop in the over room/around the clock, instantaneous communication tools can make some people feel like they’re absorbed by work.

Work From Home Pros And Cons Conclusion

The shift to remote work can be a double-edged sword. Depending on your personality, work-ethic and preferences there can be promising advantages and potential pitfalls. 

As individuals and organizations adapt to this transformative way of working, finding the right balance becomes so important. Recognizing the benefits and addressing the challenges head-on allows us to harness the full potential of remote work. 

Always take time to speak to your manager or HR department for advice/policies to make sure you’re informed to create the best environment possible for you.