Although everyone dreams about working from home, the reality does not always meet up to expectations. People always assume that it is the easy way out of the rat race but soon the lure of working in your pajamas on the sofa wears off. Particularly as you begin to experience the many unique challenges and frustrations of home working which may include:
- Multiple distractions
- Lack of accountability
- Difficulty to maintain work/ live balance
- Loneliness
- And a lack of motivation.
A co-working space can help you navigate such issues, providing an office-style environment that you can rent and share with other small businesses and entrepreneurs. Whether you work from home as a freelancer or entrepreneur, are just starting up your business or would just appreciate the chance to work amongst like-minded professionals, co-working spaces are revolutionizing the self-employed lifestyle. Read on for a breakdown of the most important benefits of co-working spaces.
– Improved productivity
When we are working from home, it is too easy to stay in our comfortable clothes, work in the bedroom or just put it off for a few hours while you watch your favorite TV show. Whereas, co-working spaces have often been purposely designed to improve productivity; ensuring that you have everything that you need to maximize your output. Research regarding co-working spaces has shown that people are more likely to have increased focus, productivity, and creativity. Plus, a recent study even showed that those working in a co-working space are more likely to thrive than those in a traditional office.
– Community
Loneliness can have a significant impact on our overall mental health and wellbeing, with recent studies suggesting that being socially isolated is as bad for you as smoking fifteen cigarettes a day. The ability to meet and work alongside other professionals has to be one of the biggest benefits of this type of work environment. As well as providing potentially helpful guidance and advice, co-working spaces can also provide you with the chance to gain professional contacts and new business. Plus, you are likely to meet people working in all sorts of areas, and you may find the perfect freelancer to outsource to. Also, just being able to chat with others throughout your day is a bonus as working from home can be quite lonesome and you may even make some new friends!
– Professional Space
Our environment can also have a significant effect on the way we work, with studies showing that multiple factors within our surroundings can affect our concentration, focus, and motivation. This suggests that just by working in a professional environment, success is easier to obtain. Moreover, some co-working spaces also have a conference room, which will provide you with the opportunity to meet clients face-to-face in a professional setting. Making sure that you always make the best impression with potential leads and current clients!
– Affordability
Co-working spaces are more affordable than traditional offices, which makes it easier to maintain your bottom line and keep costs low. They can also help to promote accountability when it comes to finances, as having a regular cost each month to pay will ensure that you are fully aware of how much you need to earn. Plus, spaces often have a flexible membership fee so you can choose how much space you will require and how often.
– Resources
Lots of co-working spaces have everything that you need to do your business, including photocopiers, desks, office supplies, and very often a fridge stacked full of goodies to keep your brain fuelled. Freelance working also requires a stable internet connection, and one of the biggest benefits of co-working spaces has to be the provision of an internet connection that is both super-fast and reliable.
