The COVID-19 pandemic changed how millions of people approach work, especially in industries where remote options were viable. Many of us suspected it already, but now science backs it up: working from home makes people happier.
A recent study from the University of South Australia shines a light on this phenomenon. Starting before the pandemic, researchers aimed to understand the impact of work on Australians’ well-being. When lockdowns hit, their project gained unexpected relevance, offering insights into the lifestyle shifts that remote work brought to the forefront.
In the early days of lockdowns, participants reported sleeping nearly 30 minutes more each night. Unsurprisingly, they also indulged in a bit more alcohol. But beyond these initial habits, the study revealed something more enduring: remote work’s long-term benefits for mental and physical health.
A Healthier Life, Thanks to Saved Commutes
Before the pandemic, the average Australian spent 4.5 hours a week commuting—a staggering amount of time that often led to stress and fatigue. With remote work, those hours were reclaimed. Instead of sitting in traffic or crammed on public transit, people found time for more sleep, self-care, family, or even extra work. Notably, 33% of respondents chose to dedicate this newfound time to leisure activities, which often led to healthier lifestyles.
According to the study, these lifestyle shifts were transformative. By working from home, people became less sedentary and engaged in more physical activity. Meals also became healthier. Sure, having the kitchen nearby led to more snacking, but it also encouraged a higher consumption of fresh, home-cooked meals with increased servings of fruits, vegetables, and dairy.
Supporting these findings, a Spanish survey revealed that remote workers gained an average of 10 extra days of free time each year. Unsurprisingly, this additional downtime correlated with greater happiness and life satisfaction.
Does Remote Work Affect Productivity?
One of the loudest criticisms of remote work is its potential to harm productivity and weaken workplace connections. While it’s true that building relationships is more challenging when coworkers aren’t sharing a physical space, the argument about productivity doesn’t hold much water.
Numerous studies, including this one, demonstrate that remote workers tend to maintain or even improve their productivity. Far from slacking off, most people thrive in a comfortable environment where they feel trusted by their employers. This increase is particularly noticeable among workers who report strong support from their organizations.
In a hybrid or fully remote setup, employees often report higher job satisfaction, enhanced mental health, and—surprisingly for skeptics—better overall performance. It seems that when given the flexibility to choose, people naturally gravitate toward practices that allow them to work effectively.
The Future of Work: Flexibility Is Key
The study concludes with a critical insight: remote work isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, it’s a powerful option that can create more inclusive and flexible workplaces. While working exclusively from home isn’t feasible for everyone, having the choice allows employees to align their work environment with their personal and professional needs.
As organizations navigate the evolving landscape of work, offering flexibility may be the key to happier, healthier, and more productive teams. Perhaps it’s time to rethink the traditional office model and embrace a future where work adapts to life—not the other way around.
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