Are you among the 34% of the US workforce who work remotely? My husband and I are! I can tell you first hand, that a change of scenery is good for your mind, body, soul and even your career! The photo above was taken by me, while I was working on the balcony of our Beachfront Condo in Galveston, Texas. We love this location, and feel rejuvenated and inspired by being there. Just an hour and 40 minute drive from our house in Houston, the condo is easy and inexpensive to get to. We have equipped it with everything we (and our guests) need for a stay, including a fully equipped kitchen, linens, blankets, pillows, towels, smart TVs and even an electric fireplace. Our remote work getaway has high speed wifi, a desk, chair & printer (all separate from the main living area, for privacy.)

When I was researching for this article, I found that there were multiple career related benefits of working in different locations. Some of them were obvious, like seeing new things and meeting new people. I can honestly say that I’ve met more people walking on the beach in Galveston than I have the whole time we’ve lived in Houston. I think that’s because people are relaxed and happy when they’re on vacation, even when it’s a working vacation. This goes hand in hand with the other things people mentioned when asked about the benefits of working remotely, beating boredom and loneliness. I am 100% with them on the boredom part! It’s challenging to look at the same four walls day in and day out, and stay inspired. Nothing inspires me more than the beach. The ocean speaks to my soul! Although my husband laughs when I say that, if you are anything like me, you can totally relate. Nothing can improve your creativity more than feeling inspired! Traveling is amazing for your perspective, as well. It opens up your mind and your heart to so many different people and experiences!

One of the cool things about working remotely from “Someday Came!” is that you can hang out at the quiet, Pointe West beachfront community during the week and get your work done, (maybe taking a quick break to hit the gym.) At the end of the workday, you can stroll on the beach or take a dip in the infinitely pool, and then walk to The Pointe Bar & Grill for happy hour and dinner. (Oh, and they have THE BEST Kahlua Fudge Brownie dessert!) On the weekend, you can drive 30 minutes up to the city of Galveston and experience the diverse culture, unique history, incredible architecture (think Restoring Galveston,) amazing food, and multitude of activities, events and festivals that take place year round.

I think that one of the most important ways working remotely, from different locations, can help advance your career, is by giving you the ability to meet, work with and collaborate with other professionals. We even joined the Galveston Chamber of Commerce, to meet people in the business community there, (think more colleagues and more leads.) You can work on a project in the location of your choice, while still maintaining your current role. You can also take a course, or attend a conference.

Those of you who homeschool your kids, know that travel and life experiences are the best teachers. Once their school work is done for the day, the kids can head to the kiddie pool, play games in the game room, on the basketball court, or make a sandcastle on the beach. A great way to end the day is by BBQing dinner on one of the grills, and making s’mores at the fire pit. This grandma can tell you that there is nothing more wonderful than happy, healthy kids (who are also worn out and ready for bed at night!)

Advance your career and your life by working remotely at least a few times each year. Start planning your list of the places you would like to work from. My husband and I would like to invite you to start by being our guests in Galveston, Texas!