5 Benefits of working from home and why I'll NEVER go back!

Work in your PJ's, avoid the long commute, answer emails while chilling in your outdoor area, sipping on a daiquiri - I think it's safe to say that working from home is something most people dream about.

Those that do work from home or remotely, really appreciate their situations and the benefits that it brings to their lives - the office job quickly becomes a foreign concept. And while working from your own sanctuary can present a very unique set of challenges, there are many things that might suprirse you about what it's like when you don't have to go into the office every day.

Take a look at these ways your life can be different and why I would never want to trade my work-at-home status for anything.

1. You no longer have to commute!
Research shows that increasing peak hour traffic congestion in major Australian cities is taking its toll on motorists, making them twice as likely to have an accident during this period. Not only are we becoming resentful of spending long hours behind the wheel just to get to work, we also begrudge paying through the nose for the privilege.
By working from home, you not only eliminate the expense but gain time to do the things you enjoy.

2. You'll save money!
Of course, you'll see an immediate difference in your bank account when you no longer bear the costs of commuting. But you'll also find savings in other areas. Not only do you have your own kitchen (and fridge) at your disposal at lunch time, you can make your coffee how you like it without paying exorbitant amounts. Hate wearing a suit and high heels? You no longer require separate wardrobes for work and the rest of your life. Plus, I can schedule errands and appointments during the week without needing to ask for permission or take precious annual leave.

3. You become more productive.
A lot of work nowadays can be done remotely and on a flexible schedule. For example, if you are in direct sales, a lot of your work can be done when the kids are at school, playing in the backyard or while they're asleep. Or if you are a web developer, you can do your design and code work whenever it suits - night owls, rejoice!
With colleagues no longer being just a few feet away, you'll experience less distractions, becoming more focused without the obligatory socialising and can control your working situation much more effectively.

4. Healthy work/life balance
Studies have shown that entrepreneurs or those who work remotely, have an easier time eating healthy and striking a manageable work-life balance. Eating healthier and having more time to spend with your family can help you feel less stressed, which will make for a happier more productive workday. You can take breaks when you need to, fit in exercise when it suits, do errands and take time out to watch your children's school play - actually have time to live your life!

5. You are in control.
You get to do what you love every single day and the freedom to choose how you do that. You are in complete control of your income and how much (or little) you make - you will get paid for your efforts, rather that a set determined weekly amount based on the number of hours you work.
With the wonders of technology, when you need to work elsewhere, you can take your office with you. You can schedule your downtime, days off and holidays when it is convenient for you and your family.

If working from home sounds like it would be a great fit for you, don't wait for the timing to be right, or for the kids to be older. Get started NOW!