WFH, but better: making remote work work for you in 2025

Remote work is here to stay, but let’s face it: a sturdy desk and reliable Wi-Fi aren’t going to cut it if you’re staring at the same four walls day in and day out. In 2023, nearly half of UK employees—44%, according to the Office for National Statistics —worked remotely at least part-time. The luxury of living in the south coast is sought after by many: the backdrop of jaw-dropping coastlines and lush countryside. So, how do you make the most of it?

Turn nature into your office reset

Dorset and Hampshire aren’t just postcard pretty—they’re practically designed to pull you out of a work-induced funk. A 2023 Natural England survey found that just two hours a week in nature can boost mental and physical health. Shake off that mid-morning slump with a walk along the Jurassic Coast; its cliffs and beaches offer more than just good views. Prefer a more forested escape? The New Forest’s leafy trails and wild ponies offer a change of pace that can sharpen focus and lower stress. You can use these natural resets as a way to recharge, not just as a quick fix.

Change up your scene—and your coffee order

Sometimes, working from home just means working from a new corner of it. A 2022 University of Sussex study found that moderate background noise, like the gentle hum of a coffee shop, can actually boost creativity. Dorset and Hampshire have cafes that are more than just caffeine stops. Nava in Ringwood offers snug vibes perfect for brainstorming, Otto Print and Coffee House in Bournemouth combines good coffee with an indie charm, and Grounded Coffee Roasters in Poole is great for a quay-side stroll between tasks. For quieter focus, In Winchester, The Handlebar Cafe combines great coffee with panoramic views of the countryside and a laid-back vibe, making it an excellent spot to settle in and work remotely.. These spots are a reminder that even small changes to your workday can make a big difference.

Find your community

Working remotely doesn’t have to mean working alone. A report from the British Red Cross and Campaign to End Loneliness found that hybrid working has increased feelings of isolation for many. That’s why creating connections matters. Shared workspaces or casual meetups with other remote workers can offer fresh perspectives and energise your routine. Research from the University of Birmingham shows that teamwork can improve problem-solving by 50%. Tapping into your local network can remind you that work is better when it’s shared—even if it’s just a shared silence while you’re all typing away.

Set boundaries and find balance

The beauty of remote work is its flexibility—but too much flexibility can blur the lines between work and life. The UK Mental Health Foundation suggests setting clear work hours and scheduling regular breaks to keep burnout at bay. How about starting your day with yoga on Bournemouth Beach (maybe one for the summer) or wrapping up the week with a walk in the New Forest: ancient woodlands, open heathlands, and the charm of free-roaming ponies... What's not to love? Sundays can be screen-free pub roast territory. Structuring your time around balance—not just productivity—isn’t slacking; it’s sustainable.

Make 2025 your year of intentional work

Here’s the thing: remote work doesn’t have to be a grind. Dorset and Hampshire offer more than a pretty backdrop—they provide tools to help you thrive. Coastal walks can spark your next big idea, while local cafes and connections can keep your days fresh and engaging. This year, it’s about building a work-from-home life that’s both productive and joyful—one that gives you the space to grow, connect, and create. Let’s make it happen.

Nikki x