The disadvantages of working from home

Many people love the idea of a job that they can do from home, thinking that the advantages will far outweigh the disadvantages. There certainly are advantages: no commuting, less wear and tear on cars and clothes and the ability to get things done just that little bit faster without any distractions. However, there are a number of negative points that anyone considering working at home will need to consider before finally taking the plunge.

Lack of motivation

First of all, you need to be sure that you will actually work while you are at home. The temptation to watch a bit of television over lunch hour could end up being all afternoon. When you have your boss and colleagues watching what you're doing, you are more likely to be inclined to get your job done. At home, you can always 'get it done later' which can end up being never.

Working longer hours than normal

Alternatively, you may find that working at home means that you lose all sense of time and start working longer hours than usual. At work, someone will inevitably ask you why you are still at work; at home, particularly if you live alone, you can do exactly as you choose. Work could increasingly encroach upon your life, even weekends, when you really should have other outlets.

Housework distractions

Working at home does mean that you can be tempted to just do a bit of hoovering while making a cup of tea. This can then turn into a cleaning frenzy, especially if you are working on something that you would really rather put off. And if you have a family, they may expect you to get all the housework done because you are at home all the time, adding to your stress levels. When working in another location, you are less likely to have time to think about housework.

Distraction from friends and family

If you have a family, it may be difficult to impress upon them that, although you are at home, you are not at their beck and call. This can be particularly difficult if you don't have a separate office from the rest of the house. If you work in the dining room, you will need to issue strict instructions so that you are not disturbed. The same goes for friends. Just because you are at home does not mean they can just pop around for a cup of tea.

Loneliness

Particularly if you live alone, you may find that you miss the social aspect of work. A portion of the working day is usually spent chatting with colleagues and you may often go out to lunch together. Working at home cuts all this out and will not be for everyone. You are also less likely to play an important role in the office dynamics, which could make you feel incredibly left out.

If any of the above disadvantages strike a chord with you, then you may want to rethink your plans to work from home. Perhaps you can spend a day or two a week at home, which would then give you the best of both worlds.