Introduction
In a new world with modern work culture, the traditional confines of the office are evolving, making room for the rise of remote work. As professionals increasingly embrace the flexibility of working from home, a pertinent question emerges: What are the best days to work from home? In this exploration, we delve into the multifaceted considerations that shape the decision-making process behind choosing the optimal days for working remotely. From individual preferences to company policies, and the ever-changing dynamics of collaborative work, we embark on a journey to uncover the nuances that contribute to the ideal work-from-home schedule. A fairly standard hybrid working model expects employees will be in the office 2/3 times per week so we will discuss the considerations in this context.
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Obligations
Unfortunately, while the new era of hybrid working has granted many a newfound level of freedom not historically experienced, when it’s all said and done, as an employee, obligations have to be met. If your employer expects you in for the Tuesday all-staff team meeting, it’s best not to be contentious and instead plan around this. Your work-from-home schedule should be built around these expectations. Happy boss, happy life.
That said, we are in a new world where it has been proven how effective remote work can be thanks to new tools and technologies. This change is something that both employers and employees are adapting to at different rates, so don’t be afraid to put forward positive suggestions for compromise. It is unlikely, however, that you will instantly go from being in the office 9-5, five days a week to a digital nomad. Maybe you could get a couple of early finishes, the compromise being you work on the train home to beat the rush hour. Don’t be afraid to ask, and always remember that if your reasonable needs aren’t being met, there are plenty of forward-thinking employers who may be more aligned with you.
Where Do You Work Best?
The next consideration in determining the best days to work from home involves evaluating the productivity dynamics of both the home environment and the office. Our article on ‘Work from Home vs. Work from Office’ delves into this aspect more comprehensively. In summary, the optimal choice depends on the individual and the environment that fosters their highest level of productivity.
While it’s often assumed that in-person connections are best for collaborative tasks and the tranquillity of a home office is ideal for focused work, the reality is more nuanced. Individuals may find that their personal preferences and productivity levels are the opposite of these assumptions. For instance, a busy household might introduce distractions, making an office environment more conducive to focused work.
The key is to understand your own work style and preferences based on personal experiences. If you thrive on focused alone time to kickstart your week, opting to work from home on Mondays might be a strategic choice. The flexibility to tailor your work environment to your own needs is a valuable aspect of the evolving work landscape.
Inject Some Fun!
Work, productivity, and optimal performance—these are often the buzzwords when discussing decisions about remote work. However, amidst the pursuit of professional success, it’s crucial to remember that we work to live, not live to work. Taking a step back and analysing these decisions from a more emotive standpoint can provide a fresh perspective.
Certainly, being valuable to your organisation and achieving success in your work are important, but happiness and well-being should not be overlooked. Consider scenarios where personal priorities take precedence—picking up your kids from school on Thursday, attending little Timmy’s football practice, or joining a Tuesday morning book club at the local library. Flexibility, a key benefit of working from home, extends beyond saving commute time; it opens the door to a richer and more balanced life.
Despite the freedom to work remotely, there’s often an ingrained sense that we must adhere to a traditional 9-to-5 schedule at our ‘best work from home setup’. It’s time to think bigger and embrace the full extent of this privilege. You’d take a break from work for a midday doctor’s appointment so why not a Salsa Class with friends, well-being should be a consistent priority, not just in moments of emergency.
Studies consistently show that the happiest employees are also the most productive. So, do your boss a favour—take that afternoon off!
Other Considerations
The commute time/struggle is another factor that will likely determine the best days to work from home. Busier trains midweek might discourage commuting, leading to a preference for working from home. Monday or Friday tends to offer a quieter commute, possibly even the luxury of a seat. Thursday is particularly social in most big cities, often the evening when workplaces organise social events after work. Prioritising attendance at these events can be valuable, fostering a more personal connection with colleagues. Join the Mob to see if we have any social events happening near you!
Another significant reason people choose to work from home on Monday and/or Friday is to extend the weekend. While still working, enjoying a Monday lie-in can allow for an extra glass of wine on Sunday night, and being at home on Friday means you can log off and instantly immerse yourself in the weekend vibes.
Working from home also offers numerous benefits for caregivers, allowing them to more easily fit work around their busy schedules. Additionally, it can serve as a tool to avoid seasonal illnesses such as the flu. Overcrowded commuter networks tend to be breeding grounds for these types of illnesses.
Conclusion
In the ever-evolving landscape of work, the quest for the perfect balance between productivity and flexibility has led us to explore the intricacies of determining the best days to work from home.
The key lies in understanding the unique blend of factors that shape our work environments and personal lives. Whether it’s the pursuit of enhanced productivity on certain days, the desire for a break mid-week, or the need to align with company culture, the art of choosing remote work days is a nuanced decision-making process. It is a dynamic interplay of personal choices, professional requirements, and the ever-evolving nature of work culture which we hope this article has helped you navigate.