The Flip Side of Home Working: 5 Things I Dislike About Working from Home

Working from home for a decade has allowed me to reap countless benefits, from increased flexibility to a better work-life balance.

However, it's not all sunshine and rainbows in the world of remote work. Anyone who claims it is 100% without its negatives is either lying or has a very unique situation. Over the years, I've come to acknowledge the aspects of homeworking that I don't particularly enjoy.

However, I still enjoy homeworking, In this article, I'll candidly share the five things I dislike about working from home.

1. It Can Make Each Day a Little "Samey"

One of the drawbacks of working from home is the lack of variety in your daily routine. The absence of a commute means that you step from your bedroom to your home office, often without leaving the house until the workday is done. This routine can become monotonous over time, making each day feel like a carbon copy of the last.

While the convenience of a home office is undeniable, it can sometimes lead to a sense of Groundhog Day. To counter this, I've learned to intentionally inject variety into my day, whether it's taking a different route for my morning walk or rearranging my workspace for a change of scenery.

2. Work and Home Can Blur

Working for yourself while at home blurs the boundaries between work and personal life. The very same space you use to relax and unwind can quickly transform into your office, making it challenging to switch off from work mode.

I've had days when I found myself working late into the evening, only to realize that I hadn't truly disconnected from my professional responsibilities. To address this, I've set strict boundaries, creating designated work hours and spaces to maintain a clear separation between my work and personal life. However, this is easier said, than done.

3. Missing Office Banter and Drinks After Work

Remote work offers solitude and independence, but it also means missing out on the camaraderie of an office environment. There's a certain charm in office banter, spontaneous discussions, and those occasional drinks after work with colleagues.

The absence of these social interactions can leave you feeling isolated, even if you're enjoying the freedom of working from home. To counter this, I make a conscious effort to stay connected with colleagues and friends through virtual coffee breaks and after-work catch-ups.

4. The Perceived Slacking Stigma

Despite the hard work and dedication that remote workers put into their jobs, there's a lingering stigma that people working from home are slacking off. Some individuals believe that if you're not in the office, you must not be as productive or committed.

To overcome this challenge, I've learned to communicate openly with clients and colleagues, providing regular updates on my progress and productivity. Demonstrating consistent results and maintaining transparent communication have helped me break down this unfounded perception.

5. Dull Periods, Especially Around Holidays and Christmas

Working from home during the holiday season or quieter periods of the year can sometimes feel a bit dull. The festive atmosphere and camaraderie of the office can be missed, making these times feel less exciting. The buzz from society is a little less in your face around these fun times.

To combat this, I've embraced the freedom that comes with remote work. I often plan my work schedule to accommodate short getaways or take advantage of quieter periods to explore new hobbies and interests. For instance, I took up Warhammer again, when I started working from home.

Conclusion

While there are undoubtedly aspects of working from home that I don't particularly enjoy, I firmly believe that the benefits far outweigh the downsides.

The flexibility, autonomy, and improved work-life balance that remote work offers are invaluable. By acknowledging and addressing the challenges, I've managed to create a fulfilling and enriching home working experience that aligns with my personal and professional goals. In the end, it's about finding a balance that works for you and making the most of the opportunities that remote work provides.