But I used to have a walking commute, which I also miss. Certainly I wouldn't miss a commute longer than 30 minutes. And I'd probably miss it less if it were in an office park somewhere, rather than a city I could walk to lunch at various places.
But yeah, I have a remote job because that's the job I have that I'm well-suited for that was available. (And sure, ability to work from one 1 or 2 days a week or as needed would certainly be convenient regardless). But I don't actually prefer working remotely, and also think there are real losses to quality of collaborative work, as well as quality of life. I know this is heretical to say these days in these circles.
I work like crap in cubicle farms and typical corporate offices. I feel like I'm on display.
I work best in a private office, with a door that closes, a window that looks out on nature, and a very large whiteboard. Ideally, I'd like my team members have similar ones.
Home is in between.
I can work much longer hours if I can:
- do basic basic bodily functions (stretching, eating, drinking, scratching, a short power nap, etc.)
- change work positions (e.g. lie down with a laptop)
- make noise (phone calls, music, etc.)
- have my papers and books spread out as I see fit
... and so on.
I have never seen a tech firm where I was comfortable in the office, and it's especially hard in places like SFO/BOS/NYC/etc. where square feet cost so much.
My past few jobs weren't with tech firms, and I really enjoyed working in proper offices.