This week marks six years since I started working from home full-time. It’s been a mix of blessings and challenges. When I began this journey, my daughters were 12 and 9. Being home to greet them after school and listen to their laughing during the summer days has been an incredible gift–one I’ll always cherish.

However, the biggest challenge has been the social isolation. With back-to-back Teams calls, it’s easy to get stuck in the echo chamber of your own thoughts. I’ve missed the ambient conversations around the office, the spontaneous chats with coworkers, and even the simple joy of listening to podcasts or audiobooks during my commute.

No matter where or how you work–whether you commute, work from home, or balance a hybrid schedule–take a moment to appreciate the unique benefits of your environment. Each setting has its perks; sometimes, it just takes a mindful pause to see them.