I remember learning of the ‘cottage industry’ that existed before the Industrial Revolution of the early 20th century. I was taught that it was a dark time, where the entire family would slave morning to evening, every day…. That children were being used as cheap labour, and everyone was miserable. Teachers told me that the industrial revolution relieved these families of such a dark and fruitless hand-to-mouth existence.

Perhaps it did offer relief then. Even so, I couldn’t help wondering how real that interpretation was. I was personally drawn to that kind of lifestyle. Today, so are many others.

People opting to work remotely from home isn’t new, but since Covid, it’s exploded. Thanks to internet sophistication, we can stay home and still remain connected. No transportation costs, less risk of catching something from your neighbour, more time to pursue other interests.

Coupled with the desire for remote home-based work is– for some – a new attitude towards housing. This is especially true among young people. They look at the enormous debt load of their parents and fellow workers, and don’t want anything to do with it.

They want to downsize, to be able to have real work-life balance, to travel wherever and whenever they want. They want freedom and room to breathe.

The cottage industry is returning. I, for one, am delighted.

If you would like to see a counsellor from the comfort of your own home (or cottage) I am accepting new clients and can be contacted here.

 

The surprising power of remote work