Remote work has given trainee accountants a lot of freedom. However, that freedom comes with some challenges that can be overcome with balance, says Jack Deignan
It’s easy to list the obvious joys of remote work. The increased levels of flexibility in daily routines, the total elimination of the pains of the commute and the comfort to be found in working from your own home.
There’s also something to be said of the lack of pressure that working from home allows. There is no expectation to get out of your pyjamas, and you can take solace in knowing your favourite mug is just down the hall.
It can be much easier to get into the rhythm of the day if you just need to walk from your bed to your desk.
Work and study challenges
However, working remotely is not without its challenges.
The lack of social cohesion in teams when everyone works from home can impact performance. It’s also difficult to foster a sense of comradery if every interaction is facilitated through a screen.
Learning on the job has also become more difficult in some cases. It’s almost always more beneficial to ask someone to explain something face-to-face.
The same goes for studying. When the pressure is on, it can feel isolating to be away from people who are going through the same kind of juggling act between work, study and life.
A proper balance
Working remotely has created an opportunity to reflect on what is gained and lost when given a chance to work from home.
We must balance our work and study while utilising the advantages of remote working.
When working from home, you can get lost in a task and continue working more than what would be considered healthy for proper work-life balance. It’s important to remember to take breaks—go for a walk, get a coffee and don’t worry about going to the GP or running to the post office if needed.
Similarly, studying can take over your life when you don’t have people around you that can keep you in check. Take the initiative to meet fellow trainees for a study session at the office or a local café.
Alternatively, set up a Teams or Zoom study call, so you don’t have to leave home but still have a study group.
Having flexibility doesn't mean forgetting when the work and study day ends—it means you get some of that time back for yourself. Enjoy it.
Jack Deignan is a Risk Assurance Associate at PwC