Scientists have studied remote work for 4 years and have reached a clear conclusion: working from home makes us happier

Scientists have spent four years studying remote work, and the findings are clear: working from home makes people happier. What started as a forced experiment during the pandemic has revealed life-changing benefits that go far beyond what anyone expected.

This research from the University of South Australia, which began before the COVID-19 crisis, tracked employees over several years to explore how flexibility in where we work can improve our lives, mental health, and productivity.

How eliminating commuting boosts well-being and sleep

One of the first perks most remote workers notice is the gift of extra time. Before the pandemic, the average Australian spent over three hours each week commuting to and from work. These daily trips not only waste time but also contribute to stress, fatigue, and decreased mental health.

The study found that eliminating commuting gives remote workers roughly 30 extra minutes of sleep each night. While this might seem small, it adds up to thousands of restful hours a year. The result? A significant shift from groggy mornings to feeling refreshed and ready to face the day.

When I stopped my daily hour-long commute, I didn’t just save time—I felt less stressed. Mornings felt more peaceful, evenings were more relaxing, and I had more time to enjoy with my family.

Along with better sleep, remote workers reported feeling a sense of calm. While some turned to drinking more wine or beer initially, the overall trend showed that fewer stressful commutes led to better emotional health. This improvement didn’t fade; it continued to grow over time.

Saving time means more chances for work-life balance and healthy habits

What do people do with the extra time they’ve gained from not commuting? The study shows that workers use it for both work and personal life. Some spent the time catching up on tasks, others focused on family, and a third spent it on leisure activities. These breaks from work aren’t just luxuries—they are essential for staying active, breaking free from sedentary routines, and recharging energy.

Another benefit of being at home is healthier eating. Workers were able to cook more often, leading to increased consumption of fresh vegetables, fruits, and dairy. Processed foods took a backseat.

I’ve personally found that having my kitchen nearby encouraged me to try new, healthier recipes, which boosted my mood and energy. While working from home can blur boundaries, it also opens doors to better lifestyle choices.

Productivity and team connection: managing remote challenges

Although remote work brings many benefits, there have been concerns about how it might impact productivity and team cohesion. Would a lack of face-to-face interaction hurt work output? Could the absence of casual office chats damage team morale?

The study from Australia reassures us on both fronts. Productivity often improves when employees have the option to work from home, especially if they are allowed to choose their own schedule and location. This distinction between mandatory and voluntary remote work is crucial. When employees have control over their work environment, job satisfaction and focus increase significantly.

That said, maintaining social bonds in a remote setting remains challenging. The study notes that while informal interactions, like “water cooler” moments, are hard to replicate, many teams found creative ways to stay connected virtually without sacrificing performance or support.

Good management plays a key role in this success. Traditional oversight methods don’t always work for remote teams, so fostering trust, open communication, and flexibility is essential to creating a supportive work environment, no matter where employees are based.

Reflecting on my own experience, I noticed that regular check-ins via video calls or messaging helped maintain a sense of belonging. Simple practices like virtual coffee breaks became vital for keeping the team connected.

This research highlights the bigger picture: work doesn’t have to be rigid and confined to an office. It can be flexible, inclusive, and focused on improving well-being.

If you’ve experienced working from home or in a hybrid setting, what changes have had the biggest impact on your happiness or health? Do you feel more productive, or is staying connected with coworkers your main challenge? Share your story below and join the conversation about the future of work.