Is working from home making you dumber?
It’s a provocative question that’s been buzzing around, and our latest podcast episode digs right into it. We break down the impact of remote work on productivity and cognitive function, featuring insights from seasoned professionals who’ve navigated the shift between office and home environments.
If you’re trying to figure out whether your home office is affecting your brainpower, or just want practical advice on staying sharp while working remotely, this episode is for you.
Let’s discuss and find out what really happens when your workspace is your living room.
Transcript Summary
00:00 - 01:27
Gab: Opens the episode, introducing the lighter side of SEO and freelancing topics. Mentions the special aspect of this episode with community guests.
Gelo: Greets the audience and introduces the term "Kadammers," referring to the listeners.
Gab:Requests the guests to introduce themselves.
Joshua: Introduces himself as a freelancer with a background in public teaching. Discusses his transition to freelancing during the pandemic, highlighting his journey from government work to exploring online opportunities.
01:28 - 05:22
Joshua: Talks about his experience with freelancing and teaching, expressing the benefits of remote work despite initial doubts about stability and productivity.
Gab: Introduces Joshua, who is part of the SEO Work Out Community.
Von: Shares his experience with both on-site and remote work, emphasizing the value of on-site work based on his career experience.
Gelo: Sets up the discussion on the controversy regarding work-from-home setups and the company's recent strong statements against it.
Joshua: Responds to the company's statement against work-from-home setups. He finds the statement controversial and discusses the balance of opinions on this issue.
05:22 - 11:25
Joshua: Discusses various aspects of work-from-home, including challenges and benefits. Suggests a hybrid model could be a good solution, providing flexibility while maintaining face-to-face interaction. Advocates for open dialogue between companies and employees to find a balanced approach. Emphasizes the need for flexibility and understanding from both sides.
Joshua: Elaborates on the importance of adapting to new ways of working and suggests a hybrid model as a potential solution.
Gelo: Shares his opinion on the strong statements made about remote work and discusses the potential marketing and PR challenges for companies holding such views. Discusses the impact of public opinion and marketing strategies on the debate about remote work. Highlights the importance of understanding different perspectives and addressing concerns transparently.
11:25 - 16:42
Gelo: Emphasizes that the opinions shared are not necessarily universal truths but rather opinions that may evolve over time.
Gab: Asks the guests about their views on whether remote work makes people "dumber" or less effective.
Von: Shares his experience with remote work, mentioning that while it can be isolating, it also fosters independence and skill development. He notes that remote work requires individuals to be proactive in managing their tasks and seeking resources.
Gab: Reflects on his own experience transitioning from corporate to freelance work, agreeing with Joshua on the need for self-directed learning and resourcefulness in a remote setup.
17:57 - 20:05
Gelo: Shares insights from the founder of Canva on the importance of social interaction for younger generations and how it impacts productivity and collaboration. He notes that while remote work has benefits, in-person interaction remains valuable.
Gelo: Asks Gab about his thoughts on how remote work impacts productivity compared to working in an office environment.
Gab: Continues the discussion, possibly elaborating on the impact of remote work on productivity and sharing final thoughts.
20:05 - 22:55
Gelo: Discusses the impact of working from home on productivity, questioning if it is beneficial compared to a corporate environment.
Gab: Reflects on the differences between remote and corporate work environments. Notes that transitioning from corporate to remote work can be challenging due to less direct oversight and fewer social interactions, which can impact knowledge transfer and productivity.
Gab: Highlights that remote work can create pressure due to the lack of direct supervision. This pressure can sometimes act as a motivator, but managing productivity from home often requires more self-discipline and structured processes. Discusses the need to set up calls and manage schedules carefully in a remote work setup. Emphasizes that without a structured approach, productivity can be affected.
Gab: Points out time management challenges in remote work. Unlike a corporate setting with fixed hours, remote work offers flexibility that can sometimes lead to less structured work patterns.Mentions the need to synchronize time zones, especially when working with clients or team members in different locations, which adds to the complexity of remote work.
Gelo: Acknowledges the impact of remote work on productivity.
Gab: Talks about being resourceful and the importance of having management tools and processes in place for remote work. Stresses that a company must establish clear structures for remote work to be effective. Continues on the need for a well-defined structure in remote work, including clear roles and responsibilities, unlike the more predefined roles in a corporate setting.
Gelo: Summarizes the discussion on how working from home impacts productivity, adding a personal note on the challenges faced.
23:00 - 25:46
Gelo: Comments on how different personal experiences and situations affect productivity at home. Shares insights on how being in the "zone" can affect productivity. Notes that it can take time to refocus if disrupted and emphasizes the importance of maintaining concentration.
Gelo: Describes how eliminating commute times can make work-from-home more productive, though it requires discipline to avoid distractions at home. Mentions how working from home saves time otherwise spent on commuting, which can be redirected towards productive activities. However, notes that remote work can sometimes lead to less structured work habits.
Gelo: Reflects on the benefits of working from home versus office work, highlighting how remote work can provide more time for personal tasks but may lack the structured environment of an office. Comments on the difference in productivity levels between office work and remote work. Notes that office environments can sometimes enhance productivity due to better focus and structure.
Gelo: Discusses the benefits of being in an office environment for maintaining productivity, such as reduced distractions and improved focus compared to working from home.Talks about the harmony and motivation found in office environments compared to working from home, where personal work ethics and environment play significant roles in productivity.
Gelo: Concludes that personal work ethics impact productivity regardless of the work environment, whether remote or office-based.
Gelo: Adds a light-hearted comment on the issue of productivity.
25:48 - 26:40
Gab: Briefly mentions the impact of family and personal focus on productivity while working from home.
Von:Notes the challenges of maintaining focus at home.
Gab: Discusses the initial difficulties of working from home, including the perception of not being productive. Reflects on how these challenges were less common before the pandemic. Describes the struggle of staying focused and productive while working from home, highlighting the difficulties in transitioning from an office environment.
Gab: Talks about dealing with productivity challenges and how transitioning from office to home work can be complex.
Gelo: Mentions the emotional aspect of productivity and adjustments to new work environments.
26:42 - 33:36
Gelo: Poses a question about staying sharp and avoiding complacency in a work-from-home setup. Seeks advice on how to remain productive and engaged while working remotely, especially in a team setting.
Gab: Asks for insights on maintaining productivity and focus.
Joshua: Suggests establishing a routine as crucial for staying productive at home. Emphasizes maintaining a consistent schedule to create a work mindset.
Gab: Reflects on personal practices for starting the workday and staying active.
Von: Comments on maintaining a productive mindset.
Gelo: Discusses how personal work habits affect productivity, suggesting that maintaining a routine is important.
Joshua: Shares his experience of adapting to a remote work setup and creating personal habits for productivity. Highlights the importance of a dedicated workspace. Describes setting up a mini office at home to stay productive. Mentions the importance of creating a dedicated work area and adjusting to new habits.
Joshua: Talks about the importance of having a separate workspace and using tools to stay organized. Mentions the role of productivity tools and apps in managing tasks effectively.
Suggests creating a designated work space at home and using productivity tools. Stresses the importance of having a clear separation between work and personal life. Recommends using to-do lists and other productivity apps to stay on track with tasks.
Von: Supports Joshua’s suggestions on staying productive.
Joshua: Highlights the importance of maintaining communication with colleagues through online tools and taking breaks to stay focused. Shares personal experiences with staying active and engaged. Emphasizes the need for continuous learning and staying updated with industry trends through online resources. Suggests using a variety of learning materials to stay motivated.
Joshua: Recommends leveraging free webinars, podcasts, and books for professional development and staying informed. Encourages exploring different types of educational resources. Discusses the importance of investing in work-related areas and exploring new things. Recommends watching documentaries and finding relaxation in such activities. Emphasizes the benefits of exploration and independence, suggesting that stepping outside the box can offer new perspectives and benefits.
Joshua: Encourages celebrating small wins, regardless of how minor they may seem. Reflects on a personal experience where, after a challenging week, treating oneself to something enjoyable, like visiting a night market, was a way to reward oneself and stay motivated. Suggests maximizing pleasure and rewarding oneself after completing daily tasks to maintain motivation. Shares that although freelancing can be challenging, exploring and improving continuously is essential.
Gab: Acknowledges Joshua’s insights and suggests hearing opinions from others who are just starting out in the field. Comments on the importance of staying sharp and avoiding complacency. Seeks opinions from others on this topic.
Gelo: Affirms the importance of staying sharp and avoiding complacency.
33:43 - 38:55
Von: Talks about complacency, noting that it can lead to a lack of effort to improve. Emphasizes the need for continuous motivation and setting personal goals to avoid becoming content with current achievements. Advises against being content with one’s current state and stresses setting personal motivations and goals to keep pushing oneself. Suggests using tools like a whiteboard to list and track goals.
Von: Recommends staying busy and continuously challenging oneself. Highlights the importance of communication and learning from others’ experiences to avoid complacency.
Emphasizes the value of taking on challenging projects to avoid stagnation and ensure continuous growth. Encourages tackling new challenges and adapting strategies as needed.
Gelo: Reflects on the value of discussing challenges and improvements.
Von: Talks about personal experiences and challenges, particularly in the field of SEO, and the need to stay updated with daily changes to maintain a competitive edge.Describes how challenging oneself and keeping up with industry changes is crucial for success. Mentions the importance of adapting to new trends and learning from mistakes.
Von: Continues discussing the need for continuous improvement and adaptation. Reflects on the importance of keeping knowledge updated and setting personal challenges to avoid complacency. Suggests taking on challenging projects and continuously evolving strategies to stay ahead. Emphasizes the importance of being proactive and open to learning new things.
Von: Reflects on personal experiences of overcoming challenges and the importance of continuously expanding knowledge and skills. Talks about setting personal goals and adapting to industry changes.
Gelo: Comments on the value of continuously adapting and learning.
Von: Shares a personal anecdote about overcoming challenges by improving knowledge and adapting strategies. Highlights the importance of perseverance and continuous learning.
Encourages embracing new opportunities and challenges as a way to keep growing and improving. Discusses how working from home can lead to knowledge stagnation if not managed properly. Highlights the importance of expanding knowledge and staying motivated.
Gelo: Offers thoughts on maintaining a growth mindset.
Von: Emphasizes the need for constant self-improvement and staying updated with industry trends. Shares personal experience of adapting and expanding knowledge as essential for success.
Von: Reflects on the importance of adapting to changes and staying motivated in a work-from-home environment. Talks about managing routines and staying updated with industry developments.
39:16 - 40:16
Gelo: Suggests shifting focus from short-term challenges to long-term goals, like saving for a dream house, as a source of motivation. Elaborates on using long-term goals, such as buying a dream house, to stay motivated.
Gab: Shares a concept from a webinar about having a guiding principle or "North Star" to keep oneself focused on long-term goals. Emphasizes the importance of having a clear goal to avoid complacency and distractions. Concludes with the idea of using a guiding principle or "North Star" to stay motivated and on track towards achieving larger goals. Stresses that having a clear vision helps maintain focus and overcome obstacles.
40:30 - 43:19
Gelo: Discusses the challenge of avoiding complacency in remote work. He reflects on a past experience where he felt he had become complacent, despite setting up reminders and visual aids to keep him focused.
Gelo mentions that he used to set up photos or slides to remind himself of his core priorities and to keep track of what needs attention. He acknowledges the struggle of staying disciplined in remote settings and the importance of reinforcing priorities and avoiding distractions.
Gab: Addresses why some companies have a negative view of remote work. He explains that traditional companies often prefer in-office setups due to their established practices for measuring productivity and managing employees. Gab points out that these companies may fear that remote work can lead to decreased focus and productivity, as they lack direct oversight of their employees.
Gab: Continues by elaborating on challenges associated with remote work, such as maintaining effective communication and managing productivity. He mentions that traditional companies may struggle with remote setups because they find it harder to track employee output and ensure that tasks are completed as expected. He emphasizes the difficulty in setting up calls and managing communication remotely, which can sometimes lead to trust issues and difficulties in ensuring that work is done correctly and timely.
43:19 - 46:21
Gab: Describes how remote work can lead to trust issues, with companies concerned about employees' focus and productivity. He mentions that some employers worry about the effectiveness of remote work due to past experiences or a lack of clear metrics to evaluate performance. He also highlights the struggle in transferring knowledge and ensuring smooth operations without face-to-face interactions.
Gelo: Explains that some companies implement strict measures, such as time tracking or frequent screenshots, to monitor productivity in a remote setting. He notes that these practices stem from previous experiences where companies faced challenges with remote work efficiency. Gelo adds that despite these measures, there are still many employees who can effectively integrate into remote work setups and maintain high performance.
Von: Shares his experience with different company setups, including those that prefer traditional office environments over remote work. He describes how some companies have negative perceptions of remote work due to trust issues and difficulties in assessing productivity. Von reflects on the varying levels of trust and productivity that different companies experience with remote work and how some may require on-site presence to feel assured about work quality.
46:21 - 50:17
Von: Elaborates on trust issues related to remote work, sharing his personal experiences with companies that have strict requirements for on-site presence. He explains that these issues often stem from concerns about accountability and the effectiveness of remote setups. He notes that the trust between employers and remote workers can vary, and some companies may have more rigid expectations due to past issues or a lack of familiarity with remote work.
Von: Discusses the challenges he faced working in industries like the POGO (Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator) sector, where remote work setups may be less common. He describes the need for clear results and accountability in these sectors, which can be a barrier to adopting remote work practices. He also touches on the broader issue of the perception of remote work in various industries and how it can impact trust and effectiveness.
Von: Reflects on recent changes and trends, including the shift towards freelancing due to issues within traditional work environments. He discusses his personal decision to resign from a company involved in POGO activities and the impact of recent events on remote work perceptions. He highlights the importance of adapting to new trends and staying informed about changes in the job market, especially in light of shifting work practices and industry developments.
50:19 - 50:58
Gab: Inquires if there are any implications or changes when someone is caught doing something wrong in the office and whether it is possible to be caught again if it happens a second time.
Von: Confirms that it is possible to be caught again if someone is already on record for a previous infraction.
Gab: Appreciates the information shared and asks if there are any additional insights or thoughts from the speakers.
Von: Mentions that some issues discussed might be out of topic but acknowledges the curiosity behind the discussion. Von clarifies that while the topic may be off-track, the discussion about the turbo industry and trust issues is relevant based on personal experience.
51:01 - 52:30
Gelo: Adds that the reverse psychology approach by some CEOs against remote work might stem from personal biases or previous experiences.
Joshua: Suggests that micro-management is a significant challenge in remote work. For remote work to be effective, it requires clear communication and mutual willingness from both employers and employees.
Gelo: Agrees with Joshua, emphasizing the importance of willingness in relationships and work dynamics.
52:33 - 53:43
Gelo: Questions whether remote work is better suited for specific industries or roles.
Gab: Confirms the relevance of the question and notes that different industries might have different requirements.
Gelo: Explores the idea of industries that could benefit from remote work, emphasizing tech jobs and roles involving computers.
Joshua: Agrees, stating that tech roles such as programming and writing are well-suited for remote work due to their reliance on digital tools. Joshua expands on the suitability of remote work for roles that primarily use laptops and the internet, highlighting that various creative roles can also adapt to remote setups. Joshua concludes that remote work is feasible for roles requiring only a computer and internet connection, but it depends on company policies and employee comfort.
54:00 - 59:24
Von: Reflects on the fit of remote work for various industries, mentioning that the Philippines has seen growth in remote roles, particularly in the SEO and IT sectors.
Gelo: Adds that certain marketing roles, such as digital marketing and creative positions like video editing, are also suitable for remote work.
Von: Further discusses that while remote work fits various roles, it’s more common in certain sectors like SEO and call centers in the Philippines. He contrasts this with traditional roles that still require physical presence.
Gelo: Emphasizes that the shift to remote work aligns with the broader IT and digital marketing trends, noting that roles requiring creativity and technical skills are particularly well-suited. Gelo mentions that customer service roles, especially in HR and backend operations, are increasingly remote. However, jobs that involve physical tasks, like construction, are not suited for remote work.
Gab: Agrees and acknowledges that remote work has limitations depending on job functions.
Gelo: Humorously points out the impracticality of remote work for certain jobs that inherently require physical presence. Gelo shares a personal anecdote about working from home and the effort involved.
Von and Gelo: Discuss the high demands of remote work, joking about the intensity and effort required.
Von: Humorously mentions the challenging nature of remote work. Von jokes about the complexity of remote work and how it can sometimes be misunderstood. Von ends the joke, acknowledging the humorous side of remote work challenges.
Gelo: Asks Gab how employers can support remote workers to ensure they remain engaged and productive.
Gab: Speaking from a managerial perspective, suggests several ways to support remote workers, such as mentorship, providing learning materials, and offering opportunities for upskilling. He mentions regular check-ins and 1-on-1 calls to monitor progress and address concerns.
59:49 - 01:04:08
Gab: Discusses the importance of understanding and addressing the problems in communication through one-on-one calls, emphasizing the benefits of personalized interactions for work-related discussions. He mentions that addressing issues through one-on-one communication helps in problem-solving and fostering creativity. Gab suggests that while structured methods are essential, allowing team members to make decisions and find next steps can improve overall company performance.
Gab: Highlights the need for ongoing support and grading of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to enhance productivity, particularly for new employees. Effective communication and proactive behavior are key to achieving better results.
Gelo: Agrees with Gab’s points, noting that empathy and understanding are crucial, especially in a remote work setup where eye contact and personal interactions are limited.
Von: Concurs, affirming the importance of empathy in communication.
Gelo: Shares his experience in a full-time SAS company, emphasizing that one-on-one communication should go beyond mere checklist items. It should involve genuine concern and empathy for employees’ issues and challenges. He elaborates on the difficulty of showing empathy remotely and the value of personal touch, like giving support in difficult times, as it builds trust and connection.
Von: Adds that such empathy can be challenging but necessary.
Gelo: Discusses the impact of losing a family member and how empathy is crucial during such times, highlighting the need for support and understanding.
Gab: Reflects on the stigma surrounding emotional expression and emphasizes the importance of sharing one’s struggles, both in personal and work contexts, to foster a supportive environment. He stresses that being open about problems and seeking support can lead to better problem-solving and improve overall well-being.
Gab: Continues, noting that personal and professional challenges often intersect, and being open about them can help manage both effectively.
Gelo: Discusses how human connections are vital, especially in remote setups, and emphasizes that empathy is key to maintaining these connections. Tools and resources are also necessary to support effective remote work. He highlights the importance of providing the right tools for remote work to ensure efficiency and productivity, likening it to a soldier needing proper ammunition.
Gab: Wraps up the discussion on empathy and support, transitioning to advice for those struggling with motivation while working from home.
01:04:09 - 01:09:31
Gelo: Asks for advice on maintaining motivation while working from home.
Von: Advises focusing on personal goals and understanding the purpose behind one’s work. He suggests not comparing oneself with others and to stay motivated by remembering personal reasons for working.He stresses the importance of focusing on one's own journey and purpose rather than external comparisons, acknowledging that motivation can fluctuate but should always be tied to personal goals.
Von: Further explains the need for planning and strategizing to maintain motivation. He suggests that setting clear goals and understanding how each task contributes to the bigger picture can help sustain motivation. He concludes by recommending that individuals regularly evaluate their motivation and adapt their strategies to stay focused and productive.
Gelo: acknowledges the value of the advice and agrees with Gab’s sentiments.
Von: adds his own perspective.
Joshua: Suggests focusing on personal motivation and questioning one's reasons for working. He shares his personal experience of transitioning between on-site and remote work, emphasizing the need to find motivation for working from home.He highlights the importance of understanding personal motivations and goals.
Joshua: Advises that individuals should continually question their motivations and find what drives them, whether for work or personal reasons.He shares his own journey of moving between different work environments and the challenge of staying motivated in various settings. His advice includes reflecting on personal goals and reasons for working.He emphasizes that motivation is a personal journey and sharing these experiences can help others who struggle with similar issues.
Joshua: Advises focusing on personal routines and family time to maintain motivation while working from home. He suggests that aligning work with personal values and family goals can enhance motivation. He talks about the benefits of working from home, such as more time with family, and how it contributes to personal satisfaction.
Joshua: Mentions his own podcasting experience and how it fits into his work-from-home routine.
01:09:35 - 01:12:00
Joshua: Acknowledges the challenges faced by those struggling with remote work and highlights the importance of recognizing the opportunities and being grateful for the ability to work from home. He underscores the value of appreciating the opportunity to work remotely and the challenges of not being able to do so, stressing the need to be thankful for the current situation.
Von: Adds his perspective on the value of remote work opportunities.
Gelo: Reaffirms the importance of being grateful for opportunities.
Gab: Reflects on the advice given, suggesting that gratitude and continual learning are essential for motivation and success in remote work.
Gelo: Suggests starting with why—understanding the reasons behind work and how it aligns with personal goals and values.
Gab: Concludes the episode by summarizing the key points discussed: empathy, motivation, and the value of remote work.
Gelo: Thanks everyone for their insights and participation.
Joshua: Offers a final thought on appreciating the current work situation and the importance of continuous reflection.
Gab: Closes the episode, expressing appreciation for the discussion and contributions from all speakers.
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