Ask a Boss is a column that offers insightful and practical workplace advice from career expert Alison Green. In a recent letter to Ask a Boss, a reader shared their struggles with working from home as a freelancer. Despite having a great boss, flexible hours, and a generous pay rate, the reader found it difficult to focus and be productive while working remotely, especially since becoming a parent to young children.
The reader expressed feelings of guilt and self-doubt, wondering if they were being lazy or ungrateful for not being able to concentrate on their work. They had tried discussing their challenges with their boss, who offered to increase their pay so they could work from a shared workspace, but the reader was unable to find a suitable location.
Alison Green’s response to the reader’s dilemma was empathetic and insightful. She acknowledged that not everyone is cut out for remote work, especially when faced with overwhelming responsibilities like caring for young children. Green suggested that the reader may be experiencing burnout and a need for downtime to recharge their brain, which could be manifesting as procrastination during work hours.
Green recommended that the reader consider setting aside dedicated time for leisure activities to give their brain the relaxation it craves, without compromising their work schedule. She also encouraged the reader to explore non-remote job opportunities to see if there are better options available in terms of pay and flexibility.
Ultimately, Green reassured the reader that struggling with remote work is not a sign of laziness or ingratitude. Life changes, such as becoming a parent, can impact how well remote work suits an individual. It’s important to adapt and find a work setup that aligns with one’s current needs and circumstances.
In conclusion, Ask a Boss provides valuable advice and perspective on navigating workplace challenges, offering practical solutions and reassurance to those facing similar struggles. Alison Green’s expertise and understanding make Ask a Boss a valuable resource for anyone seeking guidance on career-related issues.
