Article Summary
The author, with 26 years of remote work experience, reflects on the benefits of remote work. The flexibility of remote work allowed the author to be a more present father, without having to choose between his kids and his job. The author could attend school events, chaperone field trips, and spend more time with his daughters during school holidays. Despite his daughters being grownups now, the author still values the freedom and flexibility that remote work offers.
What This Means for You
- Remote work can offer flexibility and work-life balance, allowing you to spend more time with your family and attend important events.
- Remote jobs can vary in terms of flexibility, but they can provide you with opportunities to manage your time wisely and work from the comfort of your home.
- As remote work becomes more popular, it is essential to advocate for flexibility and work-life balance in your job.
- Return-to-office mandates can take away the opportunities that remote work offers, making it essential to consider flexible work options when looking for a job.
Original Post
For the better part of 26 years now, I’ve been a remote worker.
I got my first remote role in medical sales a few years after graduating from college in 1999. At the time, I’d never heard the term “remote work,” and I didn’t know anyone who actually did it.
I just knew that working from my home office was very convenient, and this setup could help me build a flexible schedule like I’d never had before.
I also really appreciated not having to commute to and from an office, which left me feeling like I had more hours in my day.
As long as I was able to complete my work well and on time, I was in the clear. I could step away for an appointment or errand during the day and just adjust the hours I was online instead of trying to take PTO.
Looking back, though, the biggest benefit of remote work was how it allowed me to be a more present father to my two daughters.
I didn’t feel like I had to choose between my kids and my job
My job’s flexibility meant I didn’t feel extra pressure to choose my work over my family or vice-versa — I could dedicate time to both without sacrificing one for the other.
I didn’t have to think twice before signing up to help with student field days or to see my kids’ projects at a school fair in the middle of the day. I could simply fit them into my schedule, then make up any work I needed to get done later.
It was especially nice being able to chaperone so many school trips. I still remember the times my daughters and I spent together exploring museums and historic harbors.
When school was closed for holidays or canceled because of inclement weather, it was no big deal. I was already working from my home office, so I’d just get to spend extra time with my kids. If I needed to, I could finish my work after they went to bed.
Without a traffic-filled commute, I was always able to be home for family dinners. All of this only helped bring me and my daughters closer.
Key Terms
- Remote Work
- Flexibility
- Work-Life Balance
- Return-to-Office Mandates
- Flexible Work Options
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