The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the way people work, with many organisations adopting remote work policies. Working from home has become increasingly popular, with employees enjoying the flexibility and convenience it offers.

At ConsciousWorks we are asked often what the ideal work arrangement is, how to think through hybrid work and how to get people excited to come back into the office again. The answers are not simple. Like any other work arrangement, there are pros and cons to working from home.

If you have the autonomy to do so for yourself, or for your team I strongly suggest you think through how to design your work environment strategically - when to work from home, when to go into the office and when to strategically gather as a team. 

Let’s explore the advantages and disadvantages of working from home based on research.

4 Pros of Working from Home

1. Increased Flexibility

   One of the primary benefits of working from home is increased flexibility. Employees have the freedom to structure their workday around their personal needs and preferences, allowing them to balance their work and personal life better. Research shows that flexible work arrangements can lead to increased job satisfaction and higher levels of productivity.

2. Reduced Commuting Time

   Working from home eliminates the need for commuting, which saves time and reduces stress. A study conducted by the Royal Society for Public Health found that people who commute for more than 30 minutes experience greater levels of stress and anxiety, which can impact their overall wellbeing.

3. Cost Savings

   Working from home can save employees money on transportation, meals, and work attire. According to a survey conducted by FlexJobs, employees who work from home can save up to $4,000 per year on transportation costs alone.

4. Improved Health

   Research suggests that working from home can lead to improved physical and mental health. A study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that people who work from home experience less stress, lower blood pressure, and improved sleep quality.

4 Cons of Working from Home

1. Lack of Social Interaction

   Working from home can be isolating, which can lead to feelings of loneliness and decreased job satisfaction. Research shows that social support is a critical factor in job satisfaction and can contribute to better mental health.

2. Difficulty in Maintaining Work-Life Balance

   Although working from home offers increased flexibility, it can also make it difficult to separate work and personal life. Employees may find it challenging to set boundaries between work and personal time, leading to burnout.

3. Reduced Collaboration

   Working from home can make collaboration and communication more challenging, especially for teams that rely heavily on face-to-face interaction. Research shows that face-to-face communication is more effective than virtual communication, which can lead to misunderstandings and decreased productivity.

4. Distractions

   Working from home can be distracting, with household chores, family members, and pets competing for attention. A study conducted by Toggl found that the average employee working from home spends 56 minutes per day on non-work-related activities.

Working from home offers several benefits, and some drawbacks. Some conscious design can help you get the best of both worlds. As employers and leaders, help your team think through what works for them and what works for the company. There is no specific answer so it is up to you to be creative, research, reflect and have an open mind on how to get work done, create sustainable work and an engaging culture.

Dr. Lisa Belanger

Lisa has a Ph.D. in Behavioural Medicine, an Executive MBA, and is a Certified Exercise Physiologist and High Performance Specialist.

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