If you’ve been following this blog, or have been doing some research on coworking spaces, you’re probably aware of some of the more obvious benefits of working out of a coworking space. It can be a great cost-saver, may provide a big boost to creativity and productivity, and provides a professional environment for your remote workers. But there is another, less immediately visible advantage to coworking. It may actually be beneficial for your health and well-being. Let’s look at why.
Traditional offices aren’t all that good for your health, are they?
For starters, let’s take a look at what we consider a traditional work environment. Let’s be honest. As much as we want to think of our jobs with enthusiasm, and as the place that we’re excited to get up each morning and head out to, that isn’t always really the case, is it? Most of us know, intuitively, that the 9 to 5, Monday through Friday grind isn’t really good for your health. After battling through a drive through rush hour traffic or mass transit, your isolated, poorly lit, cubicle or closed office lacking ventilation isn’t really an optimal environment. In contrast, coworking space provides a vibrant, dynamic environment which leads 70% of those who work in such spaces stating that they feel healthier than they did in a traditional office setting
Interaction is healthier than isolation.
The traditional office may be a bustling hub of activity, but most workers spend most of their working hours in relative isolation, in cubicles or private offices. For remote workers this is certainly the case. While you may be able to work remotely “from the comfort of your own home”, your environment won’t include a group of other professionals. A study by Lifehacker shows that 88% of those who have moved to a coworking space feel less isolated and more productive, which goes a long way towards greater happiness and well-being.
Flexible hours ease stress.
It’s almost impossible to read anything about today’s workforce without coming across some discussion of “work/life balance”. It’s a major concern for the modern worker, as evidenced by the fact that 35% of employees are motivated to change jobs for better work/life balance. The need to adhere to that strict 9 to 5 schedule creates stress as well as a feeling of disconnect from one’s family, especially in households in which both parents work. While it may not be possible for a traditional office to be open around the clock, that’s a standard operating procedure for coworking spaces, which are set up to accommodate workers making their own schedules. The increased sense of balance that this flexibility affords tends to make workers feel more relaxed, less stressed, and generally leads to greater productivity.
If you’d like to learn more about how coworking space can help you achieve better health and well-being, give us a call today. Our affordable monthly rates and great amenities will make you happy too!