Why Many Thrive in Co-Working Spaces
While working from home boomed during pandemic lockdowns, many were affected by one of the most obvious downsides of the home office — isolation.
Enter coworking spaces, which address this concern by offering a vibrant alternative for those seeking a more connected work experience. While this is not a new invention (freelancers and small businesses have been using them for decades), the appeal of coworking spaces has now reached a much wider audience.
Let’s explore the reasons why people thrive in these shared work environments:
A Wide Spectrum of Options
Coworking spaces come in all shapes and sizes. Some are run by large franchises, some are community-led spaces and others are set up by groups of entrepreneurs. Meanwhile, some offer only a simple hot desk set-up, while others have dedicated workspaces and facilities, such as meeting rooms, social areas and even leisure facilities.
Payment structures vary, too, with some spaces offering pay-as-you-go, while others may require a monthly fee.
Flexibility Reigns Supreme
The whole idea behind coworking is that it offers more flexibility, and this aligns particularly well with the up-and-coming generation of coworkers. Specifically, many spaces are open outside of normal office hours. So, whether you’re an early bird or a night owl, you can work whenever your productivity peaks.
This gives you the opportunity to schedule your working hours around your personal needs and, ultimately, improve your work/life balance.
Designed for You
In sharp contrast to the traditional office environment, coworking spaces are built around the needs of the users. Namely, ergonomic furniture, comfortable furnishings, and a pleasant atmosphere all contribute to increased productivity and happiness, as well as reduced stress. Plus, you save money by avoiding the upfront cost of furniture and equipment — and you don’t have to keep a separate room in your home just to have decent working conditions.
Most of these spaces also offer a variety of work environments — such as desks, booths, quiet meeting rooms and collaborative areas — allowing you to choose a corner that best suits your current task.
Networking & Cross-Pollination of Ideas
At the office, you’re surrounded by your colleagues who work at the same company or perhaps even do the same work as you do. However, coworking spaces attract people working on all kinds of projects from a wide spectrum of industries. This creates a great opportunity for professional interaction, puts an end to internal politics (at least in your physical space) and eliminates that weird office tension.
Surrounded by people working on different ventures, you have the chance to:
- Learn about other businesses
- Offer and receive help on projects
- Collaborate with fellow creatives
- Build valuable professional networks
Combating Isolation & Adding Structure
Even if it’s just over a coffee, working in a coworking space gives you a chance to interact with others, which cultivates your sense of community. The thing about motivation is that it’s contagious, so surrounding yourself with ambitious professionals will boost your drive, too, with practically zero effort.
Plus, going to a dedicated workspace can add structure to your day, which helps separate your work life from your personal time. This is especially beneficial if you struggle to maintain a healthy balance between the two.
Beyond an escape from isolation, coworking spaces provide a flexible, adaptable work environment that fosters collaboration, learning and a sense of community. So, if you’re seeking a more connected and fulfilling work experience, coworking might be right up your alley.
