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If you’re fed up with the 9 to 5, working from home can sound like a dream. Not only will you get to avoid your crazy boss, but you can also ditch your dreary commute.
Plus, working remotely makes people happier and more productive. That’s probably why almost three out of four job seekers today prefer companies with flexible work arrangements.
So, what are some of the best benefits of working from home? Here are six perks of going remote.
1. You can work from anywhere in the world
When you work remotely, you become completely location independent. As long as you have the tools to do your job, you can work from anywhere in the world.
That could be your favorite downtown coffee shop or local library. Or you could venture further afield to explore a new country.
As a writer, I’ve tried both approaches. At home, my “office” might be a cafe, library, or my couch.
I’ve also worked from cafes in Spain and beaches in Thailand. As long as I have an internet connection, I’m golden.
Whether you want to stay local or wander the globe, working remotely puts the freedom to choose back in your hands.
2. You get to set your own schedule
Another great perk is the power to set your own schedule. As long as you meet deadlines, you can work when you’re most productive and take a break when you’re not.
As an early bird, I like to set my alarm for 6:30 AM and concentrate deeply for a few hours. When everything goes to plan, I have the rest of my afternoon free.
If you prefer more of a late start, you could let yourself sleep in every day. Instead of living by an alarm clock, you can revert back to your natural rhythm.
Working remotely has helped me understand my work patterns a lot better. I know when I focus best and am most productive.
When you work remotely, you can set the schedule that works best for you.
3. You can say goodbye to your long commute
For some people, saying goodbye to a soul-crushing commute could be reason enough to go remote.
According to a variety of studies, long commutes have a seriously negative impact on people’s well-being. Whether you’re stuck in traffic or a crowded subway, your commute can increase stress and lower your quality of life.
When you work from home, your commute could be as short as the walk from your bed to your living room. Or you could have time for a morning run before heading to a cafe or co-working space.
Not only will you earn back your time, but your overall happiness could see a major boost.
4. You get inspired by new environments
I recently had a Skype meeting with the CEO of a company. I was sitting at my table, but he would periodically get up and move from room to room.
“I’m a big fan of pattern disruption,” he said. “Mixing up my environment helps me think.”
Pattern disruption could be anything that mixes up our routines. By shaking things up, we make space for innovation.
Changing up your work environment is one example of pattern disruption. When you work remotely, you can find new spaces that inspire your creativity and refresh your thinking.
Whether you prefer a quiet library or chatty coffee shop — or to switch between the two — the choice is in your hands.
5. You save money for things that matter
Working from home also puts money back in your wallet. When you go to the office, you spend money on transportation. You probably buy lots of polished, business casual outfits. Maybe you spend money on take-out every day at lunch.
When you work from home, you can say goodbye to these expenses. Some companies have even gone 100% remote, as it saves them a ton on real estate and utilities. Working remotely saves money for workers and employers alike.
6. You become way more independent
When you work from home, you’re responsible for managing your time and getting your work done. It’s up to you to stay accountable and cultivate good habits.
Instead of looking to someone else for structure, you must rely on yourself. By meeting these challenges, you become more independent. You also become more self-aware about your preferences and needs.
Most of us are accountable to a system throughout our lives, one that’s made up by schools, teachers, and bosses. Working from home means you step off that grid.
It’s up to you to create a system that works. In the process, you’ll become an increasingly independent person and professional.
If you’re itching to go remote, check out these 10 ways to start making money online today.
