The pros and cons of working at home VS working in an office

Do you know what really puts the ‘free’ in ‘freelancer’? It’s that, for the most part, you have the ability to choose how, when and where you work. 25% of freelancers claim that their homes are their preferred work environment. And for good reason: it allows for more flexibility and more family-time than one would have if working a conventional nine-to-five.

Whether you opt to work from your house or choose to work in a co-working space you will find that there are both pros and cons to both. Here are some of them, so that you can make an informed decision about where you base your solopreneur headquarters.

Working from home

Pros

• While you might want to touch up before a video call, working from home allows you to wear clothes that are comfortable and not have to worry about looking sharp at all times.
• Working at home also allows you more time with your family and offers far more flexibility when it comes to your time, which you are able to manage yourself.
• Lastly, your utility bill at home might be higher, but renting out a desk at a co-working facility can be a lot more expensive, making working from home a more budget-friendly option.

Cons

• One of the biggest things that many freelancers struggle with are feelings of loneliness. Spending all day at home working, especially if you live alone, can make you feel isolated.
• One thing about households is that they can be filled with distractions and noise, which doesn’t always bode well when it comes to important client calls and staying focussed.
• It’s definitely not advisable to set up shop in your bed! And not all homes have the space to create a comfortable home office set-up.

Working in an office or shared workspace

Pros

• Co-working spaces come with everything you need to get your work done, from WiFi to meeting rooms to coffee and snacks.
• Having a co-working space or office to go to for work, whether it’s daily or a couple of times a week, can help you to establish a routine, which is crucial for long-term freelancing success.
• Unlike being alone at home, joining a co-working space can help you to network with other industry professionals and just be around other humans, which is crucial for our mental wellbeing.

Cons

• When you work in a shared space, there will inevitably be noise that can be distracting and keep you from getting in a decent day’s work.
• Co-working spaces are a great solution for freelancers and entrepreneurs, but making use of them isn’t free, and will require monthly payments to secure your desk.
• If you are a private person, or are busy with work of a sensitive or controversial nature, you will likely have more privacy at home than in a co-working facility filled with freelancers.