In the United Kingdom, more than 4 million people work from home. And, it seems, they are more healthy, more active, less stressed and more productive because of it. Those who work from home take fewer sick days, eat better and exercise more – but they typically take seven days less holiday a year than their office-bound colleagues.
Figures published by the Trade Union Congress reveal an 240,000 surge over the past decade in the number of people no longer trudging into the office on a daily basis.
New research shows that, while remote working is becoming ever more popular and practical, it comes with some notable benefits and costs.
Half of home workers regularly munch through their recommended five-a-day fruit and veg, while almost three-quarters say they take 30 minutes exercise at least 12 times a month.
However, the results also showed that those who work from home got 45 minutes less sleep and took 7 days less holiday than their office-working counterparts.
“Making a success of working from home is all about balance,” said Mark Brown, of TG Escapes. “If you can treat your home office like you would any other office, which means physically and mentally switching off the lights and closing the door when you leave, you’ll find the benefits far outweigh the challenges.”
