What is Remote Work in 2025?

Remote work might not be for you - and that's okay.

Remote working is becoming increasingly popular, but it's clear that it isn't suitable for everyone. So how can you know if it is right for you?

Well, if you're happy with the 9-5 office job status quo and think that things should simply remain as they are, remote working might not be for you. And there’s nothing wrong with that. However, if you are ready and willing to embrace the “new normal”, then these newsletters are for you! Keep on reading ;)

Welcome to Remote Rebellion, a movement for self-motivated professionals, irrespective of their job title, who demand more than a 9-5 on-site job.

Remote work presents many advantages to both the employer and employee, yet companies hide behind ‘tax’ or ‘legal’ reasons as to why they cannot hire remotely.

There’s no excuse for that anymore when you use an Employee of Record like Deel or WorkMotion - they take this headache out of the equation. 

As each of us has our own unique experience and requirements, looking for a remote position is far from straightforward. Whether you're just starting out on the job hunt or have been looking for a while, a shift in mindset can be helpful. Let me show you how!

What is Remote Work

Remote work. Some people love it, others hate it. But let’s be real—it’s not for everyone.

A 2023 survey by Buffer found that 98% of remote workers want to continue working remotely in some capacity. Sounds like a dream, right? But here’s the twist: many remote workers also struggle with isolation, distractions, and burnout. Turns out, working in pajamas isn’t always as glamorous as it sounds.

The internet is flooded with articles praising remote work as the ultimate career upgrade. No commute! Flexible hours! Work from the beach! But few talk about the other side of the coin—the challenges, the frustrations, and the very real possibility that remote work might not be the right fit for you.

And that’s okay.

If you’re considering remote work—or struggling with it already—you need the full picture. The pros and the cons. The perks and the pitfalls. Because making an informed decision about your work style isn’t just about following trends; it’s about finding what actually works for you.

So let’s break it down. The good, the bad, and the unexpected truths about remote work. No sugarcoating. No fluff. Just real, practical insights to help you decide whether working remotely is your best move—or something you should run from.

Benefits of Remote Work

Remote work isn’t just a trend—it’s a fundamental shift in how businesses operate. While it’s not for everyone, there are undeniable benefits that make it appealing to many professionals.

Flexibility in Work Schedule

One of the biggest perks of remote work is flexibility. You’re not tied to the rigid 9-to-5 schedule in an office. As long as deadlines are met and productivity remains high, many companies allow employees to design their own work hours. This can be a game-changer for parents, caregivers, or anyone who functions best outside of traditional business hours.

No More Commuting

The average American commuter spends nearly one hour per day traveling to and from work. That’s five hours a week—over 250 hours per year—just sitting in traffic or on public transport. Remote work eliminates this entirely, saving time, money, and stress.

Increased Autonomy and Productivity

Without constant office distractions, many remote workers find they are more productive. You can set up your ideal work environment, take breaks when needed, and focus without unnecessary interruptions. A study by Stanford Universityfound that remote employees were 13% more productive than their office-based counterparts.

Work from Anywhere

As long as you have a stable internet connection, your office can be wherever you want it to be—home, a co-working space, or even a different country. This is particularly beneficial for those who love to travel or prefer a change of scenery.

Potential Cost Savings

Working remotely can help you save thousands of dollars per year. No commuting costs. No need for expensive work attire. No overpriced lunches near the office. For employers, remote work can also mean lower overhead costs for office space and utilities.

Challenges of Remote Work

Remote work isn’t always the dream people imagine. It comes with its own set of difficulties that can make it less ideal for some professionals.

1. Isolation and Loneliness

Without colleagues nearby, remote work can be isolating. You won’t have the usual office banter, spontaneous brainstorming sessions, or casual coffee breaks. If you thrive on social interactions, remote work might feel lonely.

2. Distractions at Home

While offices have their distractions, home environments come with their own challenges—kids, pets, deliveries, household chores, and even the temptation to binge-watch your favorite show during work hours. Without discipline, these distractions can affect productivity.

3. Blurred Work-Life Boundaries

When your home is also your office, it’s easy to overwork. Many remote employees find themselves answering emails late at night or struggling to fully “switch off” from work. Without clear boundaries, burnout can creep in quickly.

4. Communication Challenges

Remote teams rely on tools like Slack, Zoom, and email, but digital communication lacks the nuance of in-person conversations. Misunderstandings can happen more easily, and if your company doesn’t have strong remote communication practices, collaboration can suffer.

5. Career Growth and Visibility

In an office, face-to-face interactions help build relationships with managers and colleagues, often leading to promotions or leadership opportunities. Remote employees sometimes feel “out of sight, out of mind,” which can slow career progression if the company isn’t proactive about recognizing remote workers’ contributions.

Is Remote Work Suitable for You?

Not everyone thrives in a remote work environment. It requires specific skills and traits to be successful. Before jumping into remote work, ask yourself the following.

Are You Self-Motivated

Without a boss physically present, you need the discipline to stay focused and productive. If you struggle with time management or need external motivation, remote work may be challenging.

Do You Have Strong Communication Skills?

Remote work requires clear and proactive communication. Can you articulate your ideas well in writing? Are you comfortable using video calls, emails, and messaging platforms to collaborate? If not, remote work could be frustrating.

Can You Handle Tech Issues on Your Own?

From unstable WiFi to software glitches, remote workers often have to troubleshoot their own technical problems. If you’re not tech-savvy or don’t have IT support readily available, this could become a major roadblock.

Do You Need a Structured Work Environment?

Some people thrive in an office setting with a set routine, daily check-ins, and clear separation between work and personal life. If you struggle with distractions at home or need constant social interaction, remote work may not be the best fit.

Are You Comfortable Working Alone?

Remote work often means long hours without direct interaction with colleagues. If you’re someone who enjoys daily in-person collaboration, brainstorming sessions, and office camaraderie, working remotely might not be fulfilling.

Tips for Transitioning to Remote Work

If you’re new to remote work, transitioning can be challenging. Here are some key strategies to set yourself up for success.

Create a Dedicated Workspace

Avoid working from your couch or bed. Set up a designated area with a comfortable chair, a desk, and proper lighting. Having a dedicated workspace helps mentally separate work from personal life.

Establish Clear Boundaries

Set strict work hours and communicate them to family and friends. Just because you’re home doesn’t mean you’re available 24/7. Define when you’re working and when you’re off-duty.

Use the Right Tools

Invest in productivity and communication tools. Some essential ones include:

• Slack (team messaging)

• Zoom (video conferencing)

• Trello or Asana (task management)

• Google Drive (file collaboration)

These tools help streamline work processes and keep remote teams connected.

Take Breaks and Step Outside

Without a commute, it’s easy to sit at your desk all day. Schedule regular breaks, stretch, and step outside for fresh air. Short breaks improve focus and prevent burnout.

Stay Connected with Your Team

Make an effort to engage with colleagues. Join virtual coffee chats, participate in team meetings, and check in with your manager regularly. Maintaining relationships remotely takes effort, but it’s essential for career growth and workplace satisfaction.

Conclusion

Remote work is not a one-size-fits-all solution.

For some, it’s a game-changer—more freedom, fewer office distractions, and the ability to work from anywhere. For others, it’s a lonely, unstructured mess that makes focusing nearly impossible.

So, where do you fall?

If you thrive in structured environments, crave face-to-face interactions, or struggle with self-motivation, remote work might feel like an uphill battle. But if you value flexibility, enjoy working independently, and have the discipline to manage your own schedule, it could be the best career decision you ever make.

Still unsure? Try a hybrid approach. Many companies now offer a mix of in-office and remote work, giving employees the best of both worlds. Test it out. See how it feels.

And if remote work just isn’t for you? No shame in that. Ignore the hype. Success isn’t about where you work—it’s about finding the environment where you do your best work. Office, home, or a mix of both, the goal is the same: build a career that works for you, not against you.

Here are more remote jobs.

*If you spot any errors/ any sneaky hybrid remote jobs, please do let me know.

FAQs

• What does remote work mean?

  Remote work means performing your job outside of a traditional office, usually from home, a co-working space, or any location with internet access.

• What is an example of remote work?

  A software developer working from home, a customer service agent handling calls from a coffee shop, or a freelance writer working while traveling.

• What does remote mean with a job?

  A remote job means you don’t need to work from a company office. You can work from anywhere, depending on company policies.

• Does remote job mean at home?

  Not necessarily. While many remote jobs allow working from home, some companies let employees work from other locations like co-working spaces or different cities.