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Does Your Brain Prefer Working From Home?

 

With the pandemic's harsh measures, much was put on hold, including our movements and office work. Working from home became the new norm for many, while it was still all systems go for essential workers.

With many restrictions lifted, face masks no longer required, and the free movement of people, the entire world can finally look forward to a new dawn. While many businesses can now return to normalcy, the definition of "normal" may not be the same for everyone else.

In-office work is no longer the primary method for many businesses today, with remote and hybrid work arrangements more common in workplaces worldwide.

 

A balancing act

 

While you were at home, you may have realised that not only could you complete your work from home, but you were also happier and more productive doing so, right?

There were no traffic and transportation issues with which to contend, the commute was literally from your bedroom to the living room. 

On the flipside though, working in an office does offer a sense of community, entertainment and natural breaks in the day as you catch up with a friend in the kitchen or enjoy lunch at the canteen. 

Then there’s the hybrid model, where you can spend a few days in the office and a few days working at home. Is that the best of both worlds for a great work-life balance?

According to new data, if an employee was highly productive at work, they will be productive at home; if an employee was slacking off at work, they would do the same at home.

 

So, what’s the truth? 

 

According to research, remote and hybrid employees were 22% happier than onsite office workers and stayed in their jobs for a longer period. Plus, remote workers were less stressed, more focused and more productive than their office colleagues. Working from home resulted in a better work-life balance and was more beneficial to employees' physical and mental wellbeing.

In another research, a study of 1000 full-time workers discovered that workers became more accustomed to hybrid and remote office environments during the pandemic. The hybrid workplace model empowered employees to be more physically active and showed a good effect on mental health. 

A total of 56% of employees in the study reported improved mental health, better work-life balance, and increased physical activity.

 

What’s the verdict?

 

At this point, it’s not that simple to definitively say whether in-office, remote or hybrid work is better than the other. However, hybrid work, which comprises in-office and remote work in a random schedule, does have a clearer structure and balance than remote work. It's also crucial to remember that, in the end, our personality type plays a role in determining which models we prefer. 

 

Takeaway

 

As employers work to attract and keep talent, putting more focus on practices that promote health and wellbeing will enhance the workplace. With your employees, go over the available choices and whether they are appropriate for your line of work.

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Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only. Always check with your doctor or medical practitioner about any health concerns, before embarking on any fitness or nutrition programme, and usage of any medication.