Working from home: the pros and cons

Whether you are based at home full time, or you balance your working hours between your home and the office, you will know there are many pros and cons of both.

Many will find that working from home can simply make life easier and less stressful -- here are some of the other reasons why you may consider working from home:

• No commuting - this means you can save time, money and reduce your stress levels.   Taking public transport during peak times can be very expensive, and a stressful affair.
• Flexibility – working from home allows you to work when you are feeling the most productive. You are not constrained by having lunches and breaks at certain time. You can create your own schedule/timetable. Flexibility also allows you to have more of a work/life balance.
• Home comforts – you can feel completely comfortable because you are at home, which is where most people find the most comfort. You can work in your pyjamas if you wish.
• Distractions – although you may face distractions at home, you are more likely to control them, for example, a TV may be a distraction but you can turn it off.
• Reduced stress levels – you can cut stress levels by avoiding trains at peak times, however, there are other ways in which working from home may be beneficial for your mental wellbeing. You are able to take breaks when necessary, allowing you to take time out when need it the most. If you’re an introvert then working at home may be ideal for you.
• Save money – you can save money by not having to commute. Additionally, you can claim some of your home office expenses from your taxes.
• Work/life balance – working from home may be better for you to have work and life balance in your life. You are able to finish your work and do ‘life’ things.
• Suited to your lifestyle – if you are married and have kids, then working from home may be the ideal situation for you. Allowing you to be around and close to your family and simultaneously being able to work.

Every individual will have a different view on working from home, and as such here are some of the cons you should also consider before you start working from home yourself:

• Self-discipline – this is probably the biggest con, especially if you have no experience in being self-disciplined. However, as a freelancer, this should be the most core skill in your skill set.  
• Loneliness - working from home will mean that you’re not around very many people which can make you feel lonely and/or isolated. You might opt to work in public spaces such as cafes and libraries.
• Overwork – when you are at home working, there isn’t a clocking out system. Therefore, you may overwork yourself and you may also find it difficult to switch off or shut down after a day of work. This is a prevalent problem in the freelance community.
• Use up space – having an office in your house will obviously take up space. This can take up living space that you may need for something else.
• Relationship – when you don’t have daily interactions with clients/employees then you will not form that trust and relationship that you need, for an effective professional relationship.

With the pros and cons listed, you may find that working from home may be ideal for you, or you might find it too daunting. However, you should now be able to make an informed decision about whether it's for you or not.