The Hidden Side of Remote Work

The Real Value of Remote Work

Without a doubt, remote work is a major step forward. It has given us flexibility, geographic freedom, less time wasted commuting, and greater autonomy to organize our daily routine.

According to an Owl Labs study, 62% of those working in a hybrid or remote setup report being more productive than in a traditional office. Additionally, a recent Buffer survey revealed that 98% of people currently working from home wish to continue with this arrangement, at least partially.

It's not a passing fad—it's a structural shift. However, this doesn't mean it comes without challenges.

The Other Side of Working from Home

Over time, many people begin to notice that working from home, while comfortable at first, can become unsustainable in the long run. Some subtle symptoms start to appear:

• Growing difficulty concentrating.
• Entire workdays without real human contact.
• A sense of monotony—every day feels the same.
• Trouble setting clear boundaries between work and rest.
• Less energy and increased mental scattered-ness.

The real problem isn't remote work itself, but doing it continuously from the same space, with no change of scenery, no fresh air, no human contact. The home, which once functioned as a refuge from work stress, ends up becoming ambiguous and makes it harder to disconnect for the sake of mental well-being.

What Happens When You Change Your Work Environment?

Stepping outside your usual surroundings has a direct impact on how we think, feel, and work:

• Restores focus: Changing environments helps you avoid domestic distractions and provides a renewed mental framework.
• Forces you to be organized: Knowing you're working outside the house motivates more intentional day planning.
• Boosts social energy: Even without direct interaction, being around other people working creates a sense of companionship and momentum.
• Creates clearer boundaries: Physically leaving home makes it easier to disconnect from work once the day is done.

You don't need to change locations every day; even once or twice a week can be enough to restore a healthy sense of control and balance.

Coworking: Neither Home nor Office, a Third Place

Sociologist Ray Oldenburg introduced the concept of the "third place"—those spaces distinct from home and the traditional workplace, yet essential to achieving balance between personal and work life. Historically, these have been cafés, plazas, or cultural centers. Today, coworking spaces fulfill this function for thousands of people with flexible work arrangements.

A coworking space doesn't aim to replace your home or a conventional office; it offers something different:

• It's a neutral environment where you can work without interruptions or imposed rules, yet free from the emotional burden of staying home all day.
• It's a space designed to foster well-being while you get things done.
• It's an effective tool for reclaiming control over your work environment.

As of 2024, according to Allwork, there are more than 40,000 active coworking spaces around the world—a number that keeps growing. Why? Because more and more people understand that the quality of the environment where you work directly influences the quality of the work you produce.