It is 9:30 a.m., on a typical Tuesday morning. I am sitting at the breakfast table, drinking a cappuccino, and wearing sweatpants. I am not on vacation – I am working from home. “Sweatpants are a sign of defeat. You lost control of your life, so you bought some sweatpants.” With this quote, Karl Lagerfeld very well may have been referring to all those who regularly or occasionally work from home. However, I would say the opposite is true; I have today well under control. Before breakfast, I answered important mails, went for a run, and discussed today’s schedule with my assistant.
Now, I can focus on my tasks without being disturbed and work comfortably, but concentrated, through my agenda.
Spending a day working from home is still a bit of luxury for me. However, according to a study, two out of every five workers could occasionally work from home. Laptops and smartphones have already blurred the line between private and professional. For well-established organizations with a collective leadership style and employees who work in a self-organized and results oriented manner, occasionally working from home is an enrichment.
I emphasize “occasionally”. Because I would miss out on a great deal if I were to work from home on a permanent basis. Direct contact with my colleagues, small talk in the cafeteria, the team spirit, the whole social surrounding and effects of day-to-day interaction.
Now it is 5:30 p.m., my presentation is ready for tomorrow and my column is written. Since I was able to stay focused without any distractions, I have finished today‘s work even earlier than I would have in the office. I can call it a day and enjoy the evening with my family. An all-around successful day working from home.
Now I can look forward to tomorrow. To my suit, the meetings, my comrades and to many interesting discussions.
