In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, many law firms allowed their staff to work remotely, a move that, surprisingly to some, did not hinder their operations. In fact, numerous firms reported record profits during this period. Despite this, the return to office mandates have surged, possibly driven by traditional views on collaboration or the desire to utilize costly office spaces.

The daily commute, a staple of the office-based work life, often consumes a significant chunk of one's day. For example, a seemingly short 10-mile journey to the office could take up to an hour each way due to traffic. This commuting ordeal is non-existent for those who work from home, where the journey to work is merely a walk to another room, effectively freeing up several hours for more productive or personal activities.

Office environments also foster a social atmosphere which, while beneficial for team cohesion and office culture, can also detract from productive work time. Casual conversations, though often work-related, can extend for lengthy periods, subtly eating into the workday. Remote work minimizes these interactions, allowing for more focused and undisturbed work time.

Another aspect of office work that can be surprisingly time-consuming is lunch breaks. Office workers often spend a considerable amount of time deciding where to eat, traveling, and socializing post-meal. This process can easily consume an hour or more each day. In contrast, those working from home have quick access to their kitchens, significantly cutting down the time spent on meal breaks.

Given these points, it is clear why many attorneys might prefer and perform better under a work-from-home arrangement. This setup not only helps in managing work and personal life more efficiently but also potentially increases the hours they can bill, directly benefiting their practices.

As the professional world continues to adapt post-pandemic, it may be time for more firms to reconsider and possibly embrace more flexible work arrangements that align with these productivity insights.