Exploring the Dynamics of Remote Work: My Personal Journey

Do you have the opportunity to work remotely? How often do you work from home? Do you find remote work boring or a bonus to focus better?

As someone who has experienced both the highs and lows, I've delved into the realm of remote work during various phases of my career, from academia to my current role at Acorai AB.

Flexibility is certainly a benefit of working remotely, but how often do I really make use of it? Do I enjoy being by myself, or do I find myself missing the hustle and bustle of early morning buses?

Let me take you through my journey.

Being a vocal, communicative person who enjoys having in-depth talks with those around me, I find that working remotely is not enjoyable or fulfilling.

Shortly after embarking on my PhD journey, the COVID-19 pandemic swept in, prompting many to transition to remote work. However, this wasn't the case for me. During this period, my group's principal investigator initiated a massive project to conduct serology tests on all hospital personnel in Stockholm. Picture this: our lab inundated with hundreds, even thousands, of samples daily. The workload was overwhelming, with strict deadlines dictating every move. There was simply no room for remote work. However, when it came time to focus on my thesis, I found myself at home, facing the boredom of isolation. This feeling persisted as I transitioned to a fully remote start-up post-PhD.

Everyone questioned how I could work without seeing my colleagues, and truthfully, I didn't have a ready answer. The prospect was both exciting and scary. My mind was consumed by the company's innovative concept, and I couldn't bear to miss out on the opportunity. In those initial weeks, I felt like a modern-day Chuck Noland from the movie Cast Away!

I started feeling more productive and focused. I finished my work a little faster. I could sleep easier without worrying about missing my early morning transport. I wasn't being checked or micromanaged. I had more control over my health and exercised consistently. Still, the absence of face-to-face interactions left a void.

Here are some tips that helped me to stay socially active:

·       Change my clothes every day to work clothes before I start.

·       Taking pauses often and stretch my body and short walks

·       Serious workout routine at the gym

·       Talk to random people

·       Designating a dedicated workspace within my home

All in all, working 100% remote is not sustainable and it is not suitable for many business models. Trust between employers and employees becomes paramount. It's about fostering an environment where both parties have confidence in each other's commitment and capabilities.