Blue skies overhead, the sweet scent of grass on the breeze, and nestled between the Alps and the Jura mountains, is my family home.
Working remotely has become more common, with 37% of the UK’s workforce having worked remotely at some point in 2023. I decided to join ranks and take advantage of GOLD79’s remote working policy, also known as our ‘Work from Anywhere’ perk.
For two weeks, I worked from my family home, just 20 minutes from the breathtaking Lake Geneva. Not only did this time away from the usual office routine provide a change of scenery it also taught me about balance, productivity, and the importance of switching off. Every day, I’d wake up at 6:30 AM, lace up my tennis shoes, and head out to play tennis with my dad. By 7 AM, we were on the court, and for an hour, with sweat dripping, I’d find myself fully immersed in the game. It was the perfect way to kickstart my day – a beneficial combination of physical activity and quality time with my dad.
By the time I showered and sat down at my desk at 9 AM (8 AM UK time), I felt ready to tackle the day ahead. This early start also meant I had a good hour of uninterrupted, focused work before my colleagues started emailing and Teams-calling from Leeds! It was amazing to see how much I could accomplish in that quiet, distraction-free time. Establishing this morning routine made me more productive, but the biggest change that I noticed was feeling more positive about my day.
One of the greatest benefits of working from Switzerland was the clear separation between work and personal time. When midday rolled around, I’d step away from my desk and enjoy lunch in the garden, soaking up the sunshine like a lizard and throwing the frisbee for the dog. This midday break was more than a mealtime – it was a moment to reset, to step away from the screen and enjoy the pleasure of being outdoors.
Even more rewarding was how I chose to end my workday. At 5.30 PM, I’d close my laptop and head to the lake for a swim. The glacial water of Lake Geneva was the perfect balm for the heat of the day, and it helped me draw a definitive line between work and relaxation. These moments reminded me of the necessity of switching off, not just physically but mentally as well. Taking this time to disconnect from work allowed me to recharge, ensuring I could return the next day feeling ready, refreshed, and energised.
The distance from the office also brought an unexpected benefit – perspective. Being physically separated from the hustle and bustle of the office, I found myself viewing work-related issues in a different light. Problems that might have seemed urgent or stressful when I was in the thick of them now felt more manageable. The quiet, calm environment of the Swiss countryside made it easier to stay patient and composed even when up against a challenge.
This newfound patience extended to my interactions with coworkers as well. With less stress and a more balanced routine, I found myself being more understanding and patient during meetings and collaborations. It’s amazing how a change in surroundings can lead to a shift in headspace, helping you see things from a broader perspective.
Finally, the unexpected benefit of working remotely was the extra time I found for being creative. With a more balanced schedule, I felt free to spend time drawing, visiting local galleries, and creating custom posters for my brother. Having this space to indulge in creative activities not only reconnected me with my hobbies, but also helped to spark new ideas, making me more creative in my professional role.
My two weeks of remote work were more than just a change of scenery. They became a lesson in balance, mindfulness, and the importance of switching off. By creating a routine that made both work and wellbeing a priority, I discovered that it’s possible to be hugely productive without the sacrifice of personal time. The distance from the office also reframed my perspective on my career.
As I return to my regular routine, I want to commit to carrying these lessons forward. Whether you’re working remotely or in an office, the principles of balance and perspective should guide you. I encourage you to find your own balance and make time to switch off – you might be surprised by how much happier, and productive, it makes you feel.