5 Reasons You Should Already Be Coworking

You may have noticed an increase in the number of coworking spaces in the downtown core recently. These non traditional working spaces are beginning to pop up in smaller Toronto neighbourhoods as well. StartWell, for example, opened their first location along St Clair West in June.

Most of us know at least a few people who work remotely, whether as a full time freelancer, part time parent, side hustler, serial entrepreneur, or even just taking one day a week away from their corporate office.
More and more employees are working from home in a shift to “telecommuting.” As young people join the workforce, companies looking to hire top talent have recognized that 70% millennial workers would rather work remotely… And with good reason! Beyond the obvious personal benefits, It’s also more cost and time effective for companies. Additionally, Gen-Y employees have reported telecommuting increases job satisfaction.
Coworking spaces act as a fun and energized hub, in a way that traditional workplaces just can’t, for a number of reasons…

1. Be Part of a Diverse Network, That Will Allow You to Proactively Seek Out Work, That is Meaningful to You on a Personal Level.
Aside from the type of work they’re doing — freelancers can single out projects they care about, allowing them to whole-heartedly immerse themselves in their work. When you’re dedicated to your work, and open up your network, more meaningful opportunities to choose from present themselves.
Develop websites, design logos, program apps, make discoveries, plan events, solve problems, manage social media for small businesses, shoot your next gallery collection, create comic books, offer advice, self publish, fabricate the next eco friendly clothing line, whatever… You can bank roll almost any kind of project these days, thanks to the growing number of public pitch competitions, and more contemporary fundraising platforms like Indiegogo or Kickstarter.
2. Work Independently, Without Feeling Isolated.
When you’re your own boss, you make the call. Coworking spaces are typically accessible 24/7. Members can decide to put in a long day, or decide to take a long break in the middle of the day.
Choose a quiet corner to focus, or a more public collaborative area with shared tables, to socialize and interact with other members. You may even choose to work from home, without repercussion, if you have other obligations that day or just aren’t feeling it. Go to the gym, walk your dog, or even take a nap.

3. Be Your Best Self
Unlike a traditional office, co-working spaces consist of members who work for a range of different companies, ventures, and projects. There is far less internal politics at play, so there is little pressure fit in, competition, or harsh judgement.
Working amidst people with distinctly different specialties could certainly also have the effect of strengthening work identity. There is valuable insight to be gained from peers in this environment who could offer kind but critical feedback and perspective, in regards to developing your signature style as a creative, refining your processes as a productive worker, or questioning the status quo as you assess your business trajectory.
4. Be Surrounded by Individuals Who Share a Few Important Core Values.
Community, collaboration, learning, and sustainability are all cornerstones of the coworking movement. Each space has it’s own unique look, feel, and culture, but these particular themes tend to resonate globally. It’s kind of all part of an unwritten manifesto.
5. Build a Stronger Community Through Collaboration
Sure we live in a capitalist society, but that doesn't mean professional interactions need to be driven exclusively by monetary profit. Life is about more than the hyped perpetual ‘busy’ state. If you must hustle, do it with heart.
With various backgrounds and specialties, coworkers have unique skill sets to showcase. Skill exchanges, workshops and pop-up shops, can be a fun way to share value, and form strong community bonds.
Emphasized focus on empowering each other as a group, can have a strong effect or morale and the overall success of members collectively and individually.

Imagine if it were the norm to offer help freely, and there were many opportunities to do so. Coworking spaces foster this kind of supportive milieu based on a shared ethos.

