It’s become increasingly popular in recent years for Americans to ditch the traditional nine-to-five in favor of flexible work. In a recent study involving more than 1,000 professionals, 65% said they allow employees to work remotely. And since many companies are opting to hire freelancers instead of full-time employees, this situation is often a win/win.
That said, freelance work is not without its pitfalls. Although these freelance positions often allow workers to create their own schedules and maintain a better balance between their job and their personal life, there are certain problems to which freelancers are prone. Many freelancers find that creative office space solutions, like co working spaces, can solve many of these issues. Below, we’ll take a look at a few of the most common freelancer dilemmas and how co working spaces can provide the resolutions.
PROBLEM: DISTRACTIONS
Many freelancers choose to work from home or the nearest coffee shop. While not having to go into a traditional office can be a relief, working in an unconventional environment comes with its own diversions. If you’re being constantly interrupted by your kids, partner, pet, or random strangers — or your mind wanders to the chores you have to complete or what you want to make for dinner — you’re not going to get as much work done. These disturbances can be nearly impossible to ignore. But with coworking spaces, you’ll be in an informal environment that’s conducive to work without feeling stuffy. You won’t be restrained by a rigid schedule or specific rules, but you won’t have to deal with non-work-related distractions, either. It’s truly the best of both worlds.
PROBLEM: ISOLATION
When you don’t work in a regular office environment, you don’t have automatic access to socialization or collaboration. While this can allow you to be more focused, it can also feel extremely isolating. This lack of interaction can make some freelancers feel disconnected from the rest of the team and the work they do. In contrast, co working spaces provide valuable opportunities to brainstorm with and be inspired by those around you. These individuals may not work for the same company or even within the same industry, but they can provide important socialization and motivation during your work day. This kind of learning environment can be priceless for many freelancers.
PROBLEM: INCONSISTENT SCHEDULING
Although freelance work gives you the chance to figure out how you work best, rather than being confined to the normal 8- or 9-hour workday, many freelancers feel like they can never really get away from work. In theory, freelancing can provide a better work/life balance. But because you don’t have strict office hours, it’s easy to fall into the trap of never being truly off the clock. By opting for a collaborative workspace instead of using your home as your office, you can actually stick to a schedule without feeling obligated to do unpaid work or sacrifice your free time. Even though co working spaces offer flexibility, they won’t let you work through the night. So while you can still work on your own timetable for the most part, the setup won’t allow for unhealthy work habits. And really, that’s to the benefit of both employer and employee.
At Stat International, we believe in providing unique office solutions to fit your vision. You’ll soon see why we have the best collaborative workspace Delaware has to offer. To find out more about how coworking spaces can help freelancers succeed, contact us today.
