Before embarking to WAHMHood or Work At Home Motherhood, I was a corporate person. I’ve worked for several corporations, BPOs, hotels, restaurants, and much more.

But just like anyone, I’ve also encountered countless personal problems that led me to stay home. But, my domesticated lifestyle didn’t stop me from what I love doing: writing (and cooking).

I’ve been Yaya-less for about 8 years now, and that’s the best decision I’ve ever made!

So, I explored the Internet and researched on how I could make money from home. I started selling my food, baked products, and other stuff online. On the days I don’t have orders, I would write on my blog then, theblissfulmum.wordpress.com. Luckily, I found numerous opportunities online, and the rest was history.

I’ve been an online worker for eight years now and I’m wondering what would it feel like going back to the corporate world? Can I handle the stress of commuting? How about the office politics? Well, an opportunity came in and I grabbed it.

Here’s what I’ve learned from my week’s worth of experimentation.

Camaraderie

This is probably what’s lacking in the digital world, camaraderie. In an office environment, a human interaction is a must. A warm “hello” and “hi” is present all the time. Unlike working from home, you have limited interactions, even though, you have tons of group chats.

The best part of it, though, is when you guys see each other in person, it’s party all night!

What I’ve learned: I should spend more time with online friends. I will grab every opportunity to meet them in person. 

And, dance like this too!

Communication

How we communicate with each other has evolved over the years. Today, communication shouldn’t be a problem anymore. Everything has been simplified and designed according to our needs.  Such is the messenger: once you’ve “seen” the message sent via messenger, you’re already held accountable. Conversely, vital procedures and messages sent via e-mail are also accepted in full understanding with either a “Noted” or “Got it, thanks” response.

In the office environment, however – at least where I’ve joined – printing memos is a thing to do. Sadly, even though, there’s a memo, the gap is still present. There’s always a thin line between “I understood” and “Yes, I am aware,” and that thin line is called “mindfulness.”

Disappointing as it seems, but there’s still a good number of people who are not mindful of others.

What I’ve learned: I value my time so much. So, I’ve learned to set boundaries and rules in communicating with people on and offline. I shouldn’t tolerate the people wasting my time by ignoring their responsibilities and by messaging me during odd hours. On the lighter side, I admire those people who have zero knowledge in digital, yet they pushed themselves to learn more about it.

Discipline

The most common advice yet hardly practiced.

Discipline, in its simplest form, is the ability to obey rules or manipulate someone’s behavior. But discipline is a spectrum of behavioral studies so I’m going to focus on self-discipline. Clearly, discipline is expected when you work in a corporate world or anywhere, actually. You must abide by the company’s rules and regulations such as wearing a proper uniform, submission of tasks, and working on time.

Meanwhile, working from home sounds whimsical, doesn’t it?

This is my home office peg, by the way. You may also try working at co-working places like Penbrothers, VOffice, ASpace, Bowen 24 Cafe, and more!

It sure does alleviate other problems such as dreadful commuting, money, and among other things. But it’s clearly not for everyone. It could also intensify mental, emotional, and physical stress. Honestly, it is a lot of hard work. One must possess stern self-discipline because no one is managing you except yourself.

What I’ve learned: I must undo my bad habits so I can do my job efficiently. I have to discipline myself first before instilling discipline to others.

Patience

Patience is a virtue, as the old adage goes. But, dang, managing people is a pain in the arse! Just like parenting, working in an office with a bad culture is like fixing your own household with different personalities. Conversely, it also happens when working at your own pace, you’d meet different people with crazy personalities.

What I’ve Learned: I. MUST. PRACTICE. PATIENCE. I probably have to practice self-awareness again. 

CONCLUSION

There is a multitude of reasons why you should work in an office. For instance, you get to receive your paycheck on time; you have a steady income, you also have a solid “family” when you’re in need; a strong backup system when things are falling apart, and the list is endless. Nonetheless, if you have a welcoming and understanding community online, or a supportive client/boss online, the rewards of working from home are fruitful as well.

Therefore, the lessons I’ve mentioned above are just the tip of the iceberg. I’m sure there’s a gazillion of things I have to learn and discover in working in the corporate world. It certainly taught me how to rediscover my passion and revive my great work ethics, thanks to my office colleagues. I also learned how teamwork is vital in every organization, on and offline.

Ultimately, I salute all the office workers: You are indeed our modern-day heroes.

Over To You

Working from home and working in an office may be different in some ways, but it only needs one thing: passion. Know your passion and work on it. Use it in a way that it’ll help people discover their own passion too. Whether you’re freelancing or not, winning with people is a must. After all, no man is an island.

P.S. I still choose working from home – or being a freelance because this is my passion. Working from home is the best thing that’s ever happened to me. I am born to collaborate and share knowledge with people who are in need. (Of course, baking is my stress reliever, so hooray for cookies!)

Given a chance, would you choose to work remotely? Tell us your thoughts in the comments!