Work From Where?

Until recently, I was a hybrid worker—three days in the office, two at home. Our team usually picked Tuesday through Thursday to be in the building so we could all work with one another. After years of freelancing, I had craved office life in my career transition, so I really liked that rhythm.

Then our team rolled out a new system that tracks our metrics more accurately. Along with it came an unexpected option: switch to full-time remote if we wanted.

At first, I hesitated. I enjoy office culture, and frankly, that’s what I’d signed up for when I moved into the corporate world. But my actual work—verifying endless lists of numbers—is the kind of focused task I do better from home. Still, when I saw that none of my teammates planned to switch, I assumed I’d stay in the office too.

A week later, my sweet dog had a vet appointment. It was a reminder that he’s in his very final stretch of life. I’ve had Murphey since I was 18. He’s a dachshund–cocker spaniel mix, and for ten years he’s been my shadow.

Suddenly, the decision looked different. I realized I could do my work just as well from home, but only at home could I give him the extra time and care he needs—shorter bathroom breaks, a spot by my chair while I make calls — the kind of small daily moments you can’t get back later.

I’m only a week into being remote full-time, but I’ve adjusted my schedule to a 7-to-3 workday. The earlier start lets me get errands and chores done in the evening.

I’m also mindful that this choice reflects my priorities. I came to corporate work for stability and a healthier work-life balance after years of being a freelance journalist. Working from home to care for my dog feels like living that value in a very real way.

Staying Connected

One concern I had before switching was how it might affect my career growth. My company has a strong culture of internal transitioning, and I worried that being offsite could make it harder to build relationships.

To counter that, I made a promise to myself to stay visible. I will still attend weekly meetings in person, go to our bi-weekly Beer:30, the Tuesday team lunches, and I am signed up for the monthly “match-up” program that pairs people from different departments to get to know each other.

So far, collaboration hasn’t suffered. I ask my team questions when I need to, and they’re as quick to answer as ever. Remote hasn’t meant disconnected — it’s simply meant more deliberate communication.

If this experience has taught me anything, it’s that “the right decision” often looks different when you factor in your personal life. I’m glad I had the flexibility to make a choice that puts both my work and my well-being first.

And I’ve learned that remote work and growth don’t have to be opposites. Showing up — in whatever form that takes — is what matters most.