Welcome, friends, to a world where pajamas double as power suits and furry friends are your office buddies! That’s right, we’re diving headfirst into the realm of working from home. In this blog, we’ll explore the wonderful pros and occasional cons of embracing the work-from-home lifestyle. So, grab a cup of coffee (or your favorite beverage), cozy up, and let’s embark on this magical journey together!
What are the pros and cons of working from home and is it something you think you’d enjoy? Let’s talk about it!
In 2019 I officially started working full-time from home running my brand new social media marketing business. This was a huge change from my previous work life. Before, I would work a desk job at a real estate office from 8am to 4:30pm and then rush to my second job (cashier at a liquor store) from 5pm to 10pm. Home was literally a place to sleep for me and that was it!
Fast forward to today and both my husband and I are working full-time from home, no office, no break room chats, no commute. A total 180! So, let’s start with the cons because working from home absolutely has its challenges.
Cons:
1. Distractions, the Sneaky Villains:
Distractions can lurk in every corner. The siren call of Netflix, the allure of unfinished house chores, or the irresistible temptation to have a “quick” video call with friends can sabotage your productivity. It’s essential to create boundaries, set dedicated work hours, and find a quiet spot away from the clatter of daily life. Distractions at home are by far one of the most challenging aspects of work from home for me, but, I have found ways to limit distractions and improve productivity!
2. Loneliness: A Quest for Social Interaction:
Working from home can sometimes feel like embarking on a solo mission. The lack of face-to-face interaction with colleagues may leave you longing for water cooler chats or impromptu brainstorming sessions. To combat the solitude, make an effort to connect with friends and family through video calls, virtual happy hours, or even co-working spaces that provide a sense of community. I’ve found neighborhood mom friends and love to go on walks with them! Anything to fill your social cup.
3. The Blurring of Boundaries:
When your home doubles as your office, it can be challenging to draw the line between work and personal life. Emails might beckon you during dinner, and the temptation to keep pushing yourself beyond working hours can lead to burnout. Establishing a routine, setting clear boundaries, and creating a designated workspace can help you maintain a healthy work-life balance.
4. “Honey, I’m Working!” – Maintaining Boundaries with Loved Ones:
While the perks of working from home include being close to family and loved ones, it can also present a challenge when it comes to setting boundaries. It’s all too easy for well-meaning family members or roommates to assume that you’re available for impromptu conversations, household chores, or social activities during your work hours. Communicating your schedule and setting clear expectations with your loved ones can help minimize interruptions and create a harmonious balance between work and personal life.
Okay, we covered some of the major cons of work from home life, but what about the pros?! Working from home can be amazing and it’s the reason I have done it for 4 years and plan to never stop!
Pros:
1. The Great Commute Escape:
Picture this: you roll out of bed, fresh-faced and fancy-free, and with a couple of steps, you’ve reached your workspace (a.k.a., your kitchen table, home office, or cozy nook). Say goodbye to rush hour traffic, crowded subways, and the frustration of being fashionably late. Working from home grants you the precious gift of time, saved from the clutches of commuting chaos!
2. Hello, Flexibility – You’re My New Best Friend:
With the superpower of flexibility, you become the master of your own schedule! Whether you’re an early bird or a night owl, working from home allows you to adapt your working hours to your natural rhythm. Need to take a break and do a happy dance? Go ahead! Want to work early mornings so you can spend your days at the pool with your kids? Go for it! As long as you meet your deadlines and deliver stellar results, you have the freedom to choose when and how you work.
3. Embrace Your Inner Homebody:
Working from home is like stepping into your very own sanctuary. You’re surrounded by the familiar sights and sounds of home – the scent of freshly brewed coffee, your favorite cozy blanket, or the gentle purring of your furry coworker. You can create a workspace that reflects your unique personality, with decorations, scents, and music that inspire and invigorate you. No more dull cubicles or uncomfortable chairs!
Whether you’re embarking on the thrilling adventure of working from home or you’re already a seasoned remote worker, remember that every superpower comes with its own set of pros and cons. By harnessing the positives, finding playful solutions to the challenges, and staying true to your work ethic, you can conquer the remote work world with a smile on your face and a skip in your step.
Other posts you might like:
Why I Don’t Trade My Time For Money
10 Side Hustles You Can Start Today With Little to No Money
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