As a freelancer, I understand how remote working can affect one’s psyche.
My previous office was in a cellar, underground and I loved it. I used to joke about missing the zombie apocalypse, I was so isolated. I even looked into daylight overhead fluorescent lights at one stage, not realising how important this would be in the future.
However, after about a year, one day I just couldn’t go to work. There was no physical reason, but I couldn’t make myself do it.
I realised that I needed a window, and a cellar, by its definition, didn’t have one. It was secure, warm, comfortable, and spacious, but I couldn’t see the weather. And that was the issue.
So – I decided to look for another office, with a window, and also to look into this a little further because EVERYONE I told this to, understood immediately what I meant, and the mental health impact that can arise from the lack of daylight. So – I packed my office up, and with many, many trips, I relocated to Whitchurch with an office with huge windows and as much of the great British weather as I can handle! Yes, it’s a little further away and I don’t have the village mentality, but it’s so much better for me, and being that little further away helps me to really stop the office creep into my weekends.
Spending long hours in an office environment is a daily reality for many of us and it certainly was for me. Deadlines, meetings, or simply normal work tasks – our space can profoundly impact productivity, mood, and overall well-being. One often overlooked, but essential element of an office space is having a window that provides a view of the outside world.
Having an office with a window offers more than just a glimpse of the outside scenery; it can significantly improve our mood and morale. Natural light streaming in through the window helps regulate our circadian rhythm, promoting alertness and energy levels throughout the day.
The ability to see outside has become vital to me. I positioned my desk so that I can see out at all times, and love to see the change in weather, people coming and going, and just generally the outside.
Research has shown that exposure to natural light and outdoor views can enhance productivity, well-being and focus in the workplace. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found that workers in offices with windows received 173% more white light exposure during work hours and slept an average of 46 minutes more per night than workers without windows. I don’t know if I agree with this, but as I didn’t measure it before, I must take their word for it!
Beyond the tangible benefits of improved mood and productivity, having an office with a window can also promote overall well-being and creativity. Studies have suggested that exposure to natural elements, such as sunlight, greenery, and open sky, can calm the mind, reducing stress levels and promoting relaxation.
For larger companies, providing access to natural light and outdoor views demonstrates a commitment to employee well-being and can contribute to a more positive company culture. Employees who feel valued and cared for are more likely to be engaged, motivated, and satisfied in their roles, leading to increased retention and success.
In hindsight, the importance of having an office with daylight cannot be overstated. I am happier, more productive, talkative, and less isolated (although I had some fab neighbours previously). Just hearing the birds outside is a major benefit for me.
I am still looking at remote work, how isolated it can feel, and how we can improve this as freelancers, but for now, I am happy with my move, and no matter what the weather, I love watching it from my window!