By Jose Guillermo – Sunday Punch
If you had told me a few years ago that I would one day spend most of my workdays in sweatpants, sipping coffee at my kitchen table, I might not have believed you. Yet here I am, navigating the evolving world of remote and hybrid work. It’s been a journey of adaptation, learning, and redefining what “work” means to me.
Let me share my personal experiences and observations about this transformation. Perhaps you’ll recognize some of these shifts in your own life or gain insights into where we might be headed next.
It all started in early 2020 when I was abruptly transitioned to remote work. On March 13, we were instructed to take our equipment home as news of a pandemic unfolded. I vividly recall booking a Grab ride that day, which cost me Php 425, which was reimbursed by our company. Initially, working from home seemed like a dream come true—no commuting, flexible hours, and the comfort of being in my own space. However, it didn’t take long to face the challenges: staying productive, maintaining work-life balance, and feeling connected to colleagues.
Another hurdle was walking 1.5 kilometers to my in-laws’ house, as my internet installation was delayed. I had to carefully avoid being caught after curfew. Leaving my family behind during this time made it even more difficult. Those days were a constant back-and-forth struggle for about a month.
Now, think about your own experience with remote work. What’s been the biggest benefit? What’s been the most challenging?
As companies began to find their footing in this new reality, the hybrid work model emerged—a blend of remote and in-office work. For me, this was a game-changer. I could enjoy the flexibility of working from home while still experiencing the camaraderie and collaboration of office days—the best of both worlds.
If you’re currently working in a hybrid setup, how do you decide which tasks to tackle at home versus in the office?
Adapting to remote and hybrid models wouldn’t have been possible without technology. From video conferencing to project management tools, I’ve explored platforms that keep me connected and organized. But I’ve also learned the importance of setting boundaries with technology—not every email needs an instant reply, and not every meeting requires a video call.
Audit your digital tools. Are there apps or processes you can streamline to reduce virtual fatigue?
One of the most profound shifts has been rethinking what productivity looks like. In the office, it often meant visible busyness—being at your desk or attending meetings. Now, it’s about outcomes. I’ve embraced the idea that working smarter, not harder, is key. Taking breaks, setting clear goals, and communicating effectively have all been crucial.
For your next workday, focus on accomplishing three high-priority tasks rather than juggling multiple low-impact ones.
Maintaining relationships with colleagues has required creativity. Virtual coffee chats, team-building activities, and even sending quick messages to check in have helped me stay connected. It’s not the same as water cooler conversations, but it’s a step in the right direction.
Schedule a 15-minute virtual coffee break with a colleague this week to catch up, just like you would in person. At our company, we have a program called Coffee Mates, where you can connect with a colleague from a different country via MS Teams. It’s a fun opportunity to chat and build connections with someone you haven’t met or talked to before, which is a cool experience.
Looking ahead, I see the future of work as more personalized and flexible. Companies are experimenting with four-day workweeks, asynchronous schedules, and even global hiring. For individuals, this means more opportunities but also the need to stay adaptable and continually upskill.
Identify one skill you want to develop that aligns with the future of work. Start exploring online courses or mentorship opportunities today.
The shift to remote and hybrid work has been transformative. It’s taught me to value flexibility, focus on results, and find new ways to connect. While it’s not without its challenges, I believe this evolution is creating a more inclusive and balanced work environment for many of us.
How about you? What’s your vision for the future of work? Let’s continue the conversation and shape this new era together.