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Working from home used to be an idea that graced infomercials few years ago but in the new generation, it has become increasingly common. According to the data collated by Global Workplace Analytics, there are approximately 10 to 15 million home-based businesses. Before making any decisions to jump on the “home office” bandwagon, you must first weigh its advantages and disadvantages.
ADVANTAGES
Given the opportunity to be your own boss, you may be able to do things you love and get paid for it. Since you do not have a supervisor beside you, your passion will fuel your creativity and productivity. In fact, a Stanford University study showed that call center employees from China reported increased performance by 12% and higher work satisfaction as they worked from home.
Aside from this, having a home office can give you one thing that you might be itching for – freedom! You start by building your own working environment that you are most comfortable with. With this power of autonomy, you will notice that little things you do can make a huge difference.
Freedom also entails that you hold your own work schedule. Setting your own hours can mean that you get to drive your children to school, you can go out for private errands during lunch, and you won’t miss out on your children’s school presentations. This means that you are able to do more of what you really love.
DISADVANTAGES
After hearing its advantages, working from home may sound like a dream come true but you have to take note of its disadvantages too. One prominent downside to many home offices is the vulnerability to distractions such as accessible electronic devices, noisy family members, and many household tasks.
Another disadvantage is higher utility costs, especially if you barely leave your home. This is why you should make it a habit to conserve energy through simple strategies such as scheduling your air conditioning use, reducing indoor heat by painting your rooms white, or working at the brightest part of the house.
Lastly, since most people meet new people and make friends in the workplace, professionals who are working from home may experience loneliness, isolation, and depression. As they are plucked away from their previous co-workers and bosses, staying in touch with them can remedy the situation.
Image Credits: pixabay.com (CC0 Public Domain)
Bottom line: When you are shifting towards the home office, you must consider all its possible factors – both good and bad. If possible, you may split your time between the home office and the workplace.
