Working From Home Is A Good Thing, According To Science

Gone are the days of yearning for a world where the commute is a walk from your bedroom and the dress code embraces comfy slippers.

For many, this fantasy became a reality during the COVID-19 pandemic, fundamentally reshaping the work-life landscape. While initial adjustments were bumpy, emerging research paints a compelling picture: working from home (WFH) can be a win-win for both employee well-being and employer productivity.

The Gift of Time: Healthier Habits Emerge

One of the most significant advantages of WFH is the elimination of the dreaded commute. Australians, for example, were previously shackled by an average of 4.5 hours of weekly commuting, a factor linked to lower self-rated health and poorer mental well-being. The shift to home offices has given us a precious 1 hour and 18 minutes each week.

Interestingly, a portion of this newfound time gets reinvested back into work, suggesting a potential for increased productivity within a flexible work model.

The additional time at home also presents an opportunity to prioritize physical activity. A US study found that work-from-home days correlated with more frequent walking and cycling. Fewer commutes translate to more leisure time for activities like cycling to the shops or walking to pick up the kids. However, a Japanese study highlights the importance of balance.

While remote workers might snack more due to readily available kitchens, research also indicates a rise in the consumption of vegetables, fruits, and dairy, likely due to the ease of preparing meals at home.

So, ditch the greasy takeaway lunches and embrace the home kitchen!

Mental Wellbeing: Choice is Key

The impact of WFH on mental health is multifaceted. Studies show that mandatory WFH, like those during lockdowns, can have negative consequences. However, when employees have the choice to work remotely, their mental health often improves, especially when they have strong support systems and can manage their level of social interaction to combat isolation.

While some employers worry about a decline in team spirit, research suggests job performance and productivity are stable or even improved with WFH models.

Additionally, employees working remotely report higher job satisfaction and reduced work-family conflict, particularly for women.

Flexibility Empowers: A More Inclusive Workplace

The ability to work from home removes significant barriers for many individuals seeking employment. Women, especially mothers and caregivers, report improved well-being with WFH options. This flexibility allows them to better manage the juggle between paid work and unpaid caregiving responsibilities.

Similarly, for those with disabilities, WFH can overcome transportation and accessibility challenges often posed by traditional workplaces. Increased remote work opportunities can lead to greater participation in the workforce for people with disabilities, which has been linked to improved mental health.

The Future of Work: A Spectrum of Options

The evidence is clear: WFH isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. The ideal scenario offers various work arrangements to cater to diverse needs and lifestyles. Just as our homes transformed into makeshift offices overnight, our approach to work must also evolve to embrace this newfound flexibility.

By recognizing the potential of WFH to create a healthier, happier, and more productive workforce, we can build a future of work that benefits everyone.

Source: The Conversation