Work Travel Getaways

The “great shutdown” of 2020 led to a reevaluation of traditional work models. Even major corporations re-hauled operations to accommodate remote work. This brought to light various health benefits associated with working remotely. Researchers took notice and started studying the potential health benefits of remote work. Let’s take a look at seven insights from recent research that highlight the health benefits of remote work.

1. Enhanced Work-Life Balance Remote work offers greater flexibility and autonomy, which typically leads to improved work-life balance. Studies highlight this as a major benefit, contributing to improved individual performance and overall well-being (Babapour Chafi, Hultberg, & Bozic Yams, 2021).

2. Reduced Commute Stress Eliminating the daily commute not only saves time but also reduces stress associated with traffic and travel. This can lead to better mental health and more time for personal activities (Beckel & Fisher, 2022).

3. Potential for Improved Physical Health Remote work can provide more opportunities for physical activity, healthier eating habits, and better sleep patterns, which all contribute to improved physical health (Sarangi, Kim, & Rafael, 2022).

4. Decreased Exposure to Workplace Illness Working remotely minimizes the exposure to common illnesses that thrive in office environments. Working from home can contribute to overall better health (Żarczyńska-Dobiesz & Gaura, 2021).

5. Enhanced Mental Well-Being Remote work can lead to reduced workplace stress and anxiety, fostering an environment that supports mental health. This is especially true when remote work is well-supported by company policies (Jeske, 2022).

6. Opportunities for Personal Growth The autonomy and flexibility of remote work can provide opportunities for personal and professional growth, leading to increased job satisfaction and personal fulfillment (Hunter, 2018).

7. Improved Inclusivity Remote work can be more inclusive for people with disabilities or those living in remote areas, offering equal opportunities for participation and contribution (McMurtrie & Ostrikov, 2021).

Remote work presents a multitude of health benefits, from enhancing work-life balance to improving physical and mental well-being. As the nature of work continues to evolve, these studies highlight the benefits of flexible and employee-centric work models. (And they can help build a business case for remote working!)