The popularity of work-from-home arrangements is not exactly new, nor is it exclusive to remote employees. In fact, even before the COVID-19 pandemic locked down everyone at home, there’s a long list of multinational companies that began as “garage start-ups,” including Apple and Google.
Aside from saving on office rent, the founders of these businesses provided unbridled freedom by working from home because it meant they could focus on their projects at all hours of the day and night. While not all entrepreneurs can replicate the same level of success, there’s value in emulating their humble beginnings.
For entrepreneurs with small businesses, in particular, working from home provides advantages that are impossible to enjoy while working in an office. However, there are also drawbacks, the main one being the many distractions that can threaten your productivity. As a solution, entrepreneurs can choose to build a separate home office that’s away from the main house. This way, you can maintain distance from your family while still being accessible in case of emergency.
In New Zealand, home-based entrepreneurs are the majority at 68 per cent. So, if you’re a Kiwi—a Dunedin resident in particular—who is interested in creating a separate work-from-home space, make sure to hire reliable Dunedin builders who can do the job efficiently.
With all that out of the way, here are some key reasons why a separate home office is good for you as a business owner:
Minimises Distractions
The bustling environment of your home can be rife with distractions, from household chores to family activities. According to some studies, social media and household chores are among the leading distractions for home-based workers. These interruptions can significantly impact your focus.
By establishing a separate home office, you can create a space that’s exclusively for work, allowing for undivided attention. The result is improved concentration and efficiency, thereby improving the quality of output.
Facilitates Transition from Home to Work Mode
With a designated home office, you can easily create a mental shift from home to work mode for optimal performance. The clear boundary aids in the smooth transition from domestic responsibilities to business tasks. Furthermore, you can create a transitional routine to reinforce this shift, which can set the stage for a productive workday.
Promotes Efficiency
The physical containment of work-related activities within a separate area brings several benefits. For one, it promotes organisation and efficiency. This then leads you to manage your tasks more effectively.
With a designated workspace, tools and resources can also be easily accessed, which can then streamline your workflow. At the very least, the organisation afforded by a home office can reduce the time spent searching for materials. Indeed, containing work within a dedicated space can lead to increased productivity and smoother business operations.
Boosts Business Productivity
The correlation between a dedicated workspace and increased productivity is well-documented. According to some surveys, 96 per cent of remote workers prefer a separate workspace for the sake of productivity
You can leverage a home office to create an environment conducive to work. To further boost this effect, invest in the right tools and technologies, like advanced project management software or ergonomic office furniture.
Improves Work-Life Balance
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for your physical, mental, and emotional health. With a clear line separating your professional and personal life in the form of your home office, you can be free to disconnect from work at the end of the day so you can focus on a more relaxed and fulfilling personal life.
Saves on Office Rental Expenses
The financial aspect of running a small business is always a consideration. To somewhat circumvent this, you can establish a separate home office to eliminate the need for external office space rental.
In doing so, you can redirect funds that would otherwise go into rent toward business development or other strategic investments. To maximise your savings, keep in mind cost-effective home office setups that can be implemented without compromising professionalism. This makes for a more pragmatic choice for budget-conscious business owners.
Offers Tax Advantages
Beyond cost savings, having a separate home office may also give you tax advantages. Since you will be using your new space for your business, its construction may be deducted as an expense. That said, you have to check your local regulations so you can remain compliant.
Investing in a separate home office is a strategic move that can unlock numerous benefits for you as an entrepreneur. With a separate home office, you can work on your business while still being present for the most important moments in your home life.
With this home office solution, you don’t have to compromise because you get the best of both worlds. So, consider building your home office today so you can focus on your business growth as well as your growing family.