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As a dad balancing work and family life, the idea of working from home initially seemed perfect. I could spend more time with my kids and avoid the daily commute. However, the endless distractions—children needing attention, household chores, and the constant temptation to step away from the desk—made it clear that I needed a change.
According to organisational psychologist Adam Grant, ‘The most productive employees are those who have the ability to draw a clear line between their work and personal lives’. I was struggling with this, to the point where it was stressing me out.
It became clear that I needed a change to maintain my sanity and productivity.
Exploring My Options
To fix this problem, I explored several options.
First, I tried creating a more structured schedule at home, designating specific work hours and setting up a dedicated home office space. While these adjustments provided some improvement, the distractions remained a significant issue.
Next, I considered working from local coffee shops or libraries for a change of scenery. Though these environments offered fewer distractions than home, they still lacked the professional setup and consistency I needed for optimal productivity.
Lastly, I looked into coworking spaces. While coworking spaces provided a more professional environment, they often lacked the privacy and dedicated resources necessary for my work. After these attempts, I realised a serviced office might be the comprehensive solution I needed.
Choosing a Serviced Office
That’s when I decided to give another solution a try and opted for a serviced office in London. This choice promised to optimise my work and life without compromising either.
The decision to move to a serviced office wasn’t easy. I worried about missing out on family time and the convenience of working from home. However, the turning point came when I realised that the lack of structure was affecting my work efficiency and my ability to fully engage with my family during non-working hours.
I needed a dedicated space to work, free from distractions, to be truly productive. This realisation led me to explore the benefits of a serviced office, and it turned out to be a game-changer.
One of the key factors in making this transition successful was setting a schedule that worked for both my professional and personal life. I decided to work from the serviced office three days a week and from home for the remaining two. This arrangement allowed me to have focused, uninterrupted work time while still being present for my family.
Pros and Cons of Choosing a Serviced Office vs. Working from Home
Serviced offices come with numerous advantages, and the experience has been nothing short of transformative. The professional setting, complete with high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and administrative support, provided everything I needed to work efficiently. The change in environment also helped me shift into work mode more easily, boosting my productivity.
However, there are pros and cons to both options:
Pros of a Serviced Office
- Professional Environment: A dedicated workspace that minimises distractions.
- Increased Productivity: A structured environment helps boost focus and efficiency.
- Networking Opportunities: Access to a community of professionals.
- Facilities and Support: High-speed internet, meeting rooms, and administrative support.
Cons of a Serviced Office
- Cost: Additional expense compared to working from home.
- Commute: Time spent travelling to the office.
Pros of a Home Office
- Convenience: No commute and flexible working hours.
- Cost Savings: No need to pay for office space.
- More Family Time: Easier to balance work and family commitments.
Cons of a Home Office
- Distractions: Household chores and family interruptions.
- Lack of Structure: Harder to separate work and personal life.
- Isolation: Fewer opportunities for networking and socialising.
Impact of This Change on my Life
Working from a serviced office didn’t just improve my professional life. It has a positive impact on my family life as well. When I returned home after a day at the office, I was more present and engaged with my family.
The clear separation between work and home life allowed me to be fully there for my kids, without the stress of unfinished work hanging over my head. This arrangement created a healthier work-life balance, and I found myself more relaxed and happy.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Work-Life Balance
Switching to a serviced office has been one of the best decisions for both my work and family life. The dedicated workspace significantly boosted my productivity, while the structured schedule allowed me to be more present with my family.
For many, the debate between working from home and working from an office space comes down to finding the right balance that suits their lifestyle and professional needs. Whether you choose to work from home, a serviced office, or a combination of both, it’s crucial to create an environment that supports your productivity and well-being. Explore your options, consider your personal and professional needs, and find the setup that works best for you and your family.