Out of the office

Advantages and disadvantages of working from home.

I recently went into a state of semi-retirement from Zweig Group. While I am still the chairman and have certain client-related and company duties to fulfill, I’m off the “active duty” roster for now and have moved out of my Zweig Group office at 1200 N. College and into my home office. 

Working from home definitely has certain advantages and disadvantages. On the plus side, the commute time is minimal. I have to walk about 100 feet from my master bedroom to my office/library on the other side of the house. And the dress code is super-relaxed — although I must confess, I still rise at the same time every day, take a shower, and dress as if I am going out of the house.

I have everything I need here. I bought a new high-speed laser printer on Amazon and it sits right on my desk — super convenient. I have a fantastic view out my 12-foot-high front windows. I have a private bathroom for when I need it. Snacks are always in the kitchen. I don’t have to go out to lunch if I don’t want to, saving time and money. And my two cats, Ozzie and Harriett, can keep me company all day and follow me around wherever I go. 

On the other hand, there are some disadvantages. Quiet can be nice if you want to get certain things done, but too quiet all of the time can be a negative. There’s no buzz unless I am creating it. You don’t have anyone there to draw energy from. And it can get lonely if no one comes over to see you. 

A number of our readers either work full- or part-time from their homes. If so, what are you finding? Drop me a line at mzweig@zweiggroup.com to share. Maybe we can publish your comments in a future issue of the magazine.

Meanwhile, we have a new year and another new issue of Civil + Structural Engineer magazine here for you to enjoy! I wish you all the best for 2019! Thank you for what you do for us all and thank you for reading our publication!