Benefits of location-independent work
Updated 2024-07-06. Originally published 2012-09-04 on VocationVillage.com
I wrote the first version of this article in 2012, a year after I began working remotely. My list seems quaint now that so many people work remotely, but in case anyone remains unconvinced, here are my favorite reasons to choose a location-independent career.
1. No commute. In many cities, commutes to employment centers take 2-3 hours per day. Think about all the things you could accomplish instead of spending all that time sitting in a car, bus, or train.
2. Flexible schedule. When you work anywhere with flexibility, you can schedule around parenting obligations, social commitments, exercise, volunteer work, and hobbies. You can have a life.
3. Casual dress. As long as you look presentable and professional on camera, no one has to know the details of the rest of your clothing or whether you are waiting until later to take a shower after your workout.
4. Time with family and friends. When you work from anywhere, vacation doesn't have to be the only time you see family and friends who live in other cities. You can mix work and play and you can more easily be available for family or friends who need your help during times of medical or other crises.
5. Recession proofing. When the economy slows down in some areas of the country, other areas may do better. By having the ability to work with clients or customers in multiple geographic areas, you don't have to put all your economic eggs in one geographic basket. It makes you less financially vulnerable when you can easily shift your focus to areas of the country that are doing well.
6. World travel. You don't have to limit your location to the United States. As long as the technology is available to do so and your employer approves it, you can just as easily work from anywhere in the world.
7. Easier dual-career decision-making. One of the most difficult things about being a corporate or military spouse is that every time you gain traction in your career, it is time to move again. Location independence is perfect for people in these situations. If you can work from anywhere, relocations don't have to disrupt your flow of income.
8. Less stress. For many people, remote employment is much less stressful than in-person employment. The emphasis is on results instead of face time. When there are challenges like isolation, that’s a solvable problem, compared to the challenges of in-person employment that are more persistent.
Do you work in a location-independent job? Did I miss any benefits? Please let me know.
