More and more people are working from home and enjoying the many benefits it can bring. If you are considering making the switch, it is worth knowing that working from home can improve your quality of life, your health, your bank balance and your productivity.
Time
One of the main benefits of working from home is the amount of time you will save commuting, giving you extra time in your day to do the things you enjoy, including spending time with your family and friends, exercising and enjoying a hobby or relaxing.
Money
Whether you spend money on train fares, petrol, lunch or you are a business owner and rent an office space, by working from home, you are making a huge annual saving, leaving you more to spend on other things such as holidays. By calculating how much money you can save, you will be able to work out how much you can afford to spend on making changes to your home to give you a designated workspace, or investing in a garden office or a conservatory, which can be used as a home office.
Investment
Not only will you save money by working from your garden, but you will also be adding value to your property. According to estate agents, opting for a garden office can increase the value of your property by £10,000 – £15,000 and make your property more desirable and easier to sell.
Environment
In addition to the sheer convenience of working from home means, you can enjoy all your home comforts and work in an environment that is right for you. Whether you like the window open or closed, lights on or off, music playing or silence, you can choose. You can also decorate it to taste and by opting for a space in your garden, you escape the hubbub of the house and have your own haven. Scientific studies have proven that being surrounded by nature lowers heart rate and makes the mind relax, so a garden office is also good for your health!
Quality of Life and Convenience
In saving commuting time, you are also on hand when needed, whether it is to take in a delivery, or help look after children who might be unwell, or on school holidays. You may even decide to tackle some household chores during a break from work or perhaps take a quick trip to the local shops to pick up essentials. Ultimately, this flexibility means that you can have greater control over your working patterns to fit your lifestyle.
Routine
One thing you may need to get used to is having a new routine. Try to stick to a timetable and start work at the same time each day. Remember to allow yourself time for a break and exercise and don’t forget to switch off at the end of the evening. One trap many people fall into is working longer hours because they are at home. Although it isn’t always possible, it is worth trying to set yourself a time to finish your work, prioritising and leaving any less urgent tasks for the following day.
