In the homeoffice ... Is total flexibility better or have fixed schedules?

Working from home gives us a great advantage: To be able to organize our time in the way that works best for us.

But, When we talk about schedules, A key question arises: Is it better to have a structured routine or work with total flexibility? There is no unique answer, because each person and each type of work have different needs. But what we can do is analyze the pros and cons of each modality to help you find the ideal balance.

The total flexibility: Freedom with responsibility

Work without fixed schedules sounds like a dream come true. Be able to choose when starting, When to take a break and when to close the laptop is, Without a doubt, A great benefit. This allows you to adapt the work to your most productivity moments and combine it better with personal life. But it also has its challenges.

Advantages:

• It adapts to your natural rhythm of energy and concentration.
• Facilitates conciliation with other responsibilities, like family or study.
• Reduces stress of complying with strict schedules.

Challenges:

• It can be difficult to disconnect and finish the day.
• It requires a lot of discipline to not procrastine.
• You can complicate coordination with equipment that do have established schedules.

Have fixed schedules: Structure and organization

Have a fixed work schedule at Home Office provides stability and clarity. Knowing when your day begins and ends helping limits and maintaining a predictable routine. Nevertheless, It can also feel like a limitation if it does not adapt to your personal needs.

Advantages:

• Facilitates the organization of the day and the separation between work and personal life.
• Improves coordination with teams that work together.
• Help avoid the feeling of being available at all times.

Challenges:

• You may not take advantage of the most personal productivity moments.
• Less flexibility for unforeseen events or personal needs.
• Can generate the feeling of being “tied” to a schedule although it is not necessary.

SO, What is the best option?

There is no perfect formula. The important thing is to find the midpoint that works for you and your team. Some strategies can help:

• Base schedules with flexibility: Have a reference schedule, but with margin to adjust according to the needs.
• Time blocks: Divide the day into intensive work blocks and rest, instead of a strict fixed schedule.
• Equipment: If you work with other people, Define common schedules for meetings and collaborative work.

Working from home is an opportunity to design our day more efficiently and healthy. The important thing is to find what best suits our work and life style.

How Dice Tim Ferriss: “The goal is not living to work, but work to live”.