The Disadvantages of Working from Home

Are you working from home? Is this an option you have been offered? Given the choice, I would consider the following ramifications before you decide.

The positive aspects of working from home are well known: flexible scheduling; reduction in child-care expenses; no travel time or carbon footprint; more time with family. It sounds like a no-brainer. But have you considered what you will be missing out on? 

One of the biggest downsides is missing the social interaction of the workplace. Venting to your WBF (work best friend) about the daily challenges of dealing with clients, bosses, idiotic colleagues and the assigned tasks is one of the delights of any worksite. You have people to eat lunch with every day and to catch up on the current events, TV shows and latest trends. This kind of camaraderie is an important part of our well-being . It gets us out of our heads and allows us to bring home fresh stories to share with our partners over dinner. 

There are also the learning opportunities that collegial sharing brings. We naturally collaborate on how to fix technical glitches, approach new tasks and problem solve. Trying to do this by yourself at home often leads to frustration. My work colleagues were invaluable in helping me do my job well. We would regularly learn new software and undertake pilot projects together. For example, as a teacher, I would have felt very isolated trying to learn and manage all the virtual learning through the pandemic. I am grateful that I retired right before Covid hit. 

Getting out of the house creates a change of scenery and a break from our partners. Even the travel time can be pleasant. Perhaps you were riding commuter rail and got to listen to podcasts or music on the way in. Just the fresh air and movement can pick up your mood and make you feel connected to the “real world”. 

Please share any changes you have experienced in your work environment recently.