What remote work means to me and where GrowRemote fits in
In 2019, before COVID changed how we all work, I accepted a fully remote job. This move let me leave behind Dublin’s high costs. I swapped a small apartment for a house with a garden, giving me space for hobbies.
The Good Side of Remote Work
Remote work freed me from long commutes and crazy rents. It gave me control over my time like never before, letting me focus on what really matters in work and life. Being able to plan my day how I want has been amazing.
The Challenge of Remote Work
But this new freedom came with its own problems. The casual chats, shared moments, and buzz of an office were missing. In my old job, those random chats often led to unexpected achivements and personal growth.
I remember when my colleagues convinced me to join them in a 100km cycle—a challenge I would’ve never considered on my own. Their encouragement pushed me beyond my limits, and we accomplished something memorable together.
With remote work, those spontaneous experiences and that sense of community were gone. I no longer had people nearby to motivate me.
How Grow Remote Fills That Gap
While remote work’s flexibility is great, it can make you feel cut off. That’s where Grow Remote comes in - creating a space where remote workers can connect, support each other, and share experiences.
Grow Remote has encouraged me to try new things, just like my old workmates did with that 100km cycle. Thanks to this lively community, I’ve found myself doing things I never thought I would, from jumping into the Irish Sea at dawn to organising local events for other remote workers.
Get Involved with Grow Remote
What makes Grow Remote special is the variety of activities organised by groups all over Ireland. These events are more than just work meetups - they help people make real connections and share experiences. Here’s a taste of what Grow Remote offers:
- Kayaking & Pints (Cork, June 2023): Adventure on the water followed by a well-earned drink.
- Beach Clean (Kinsale, April 2023): Helping the community while enjoying the sea view.
- Ghost Tour (Down, Halloween 2023): A spooky look at local history and stories.
- Christmas Lunch (Down, December 2023): Celebrating the festive season as a group.
- Quiz Night (Longford, December 2023): Testing knowledge and having fun with friendly competition.
These events show how Grow Remote brings people together. They give remote workers chances to connect, have fun, and get involved with their local areas in meaningful ways.
- To find Grow Remote events near you, visit Grow Remote’s Eventbrite page.
- If you’re interested in leading your own chapter, learn more about becoming a local leader here.
Helping Others Find Their Remote Role
One of the best parts of being involved with Grow Remote is helping others find their own path to remote work. I’ve seen how much freedom and flexibility it can bring, and I want to help others experience the same.
Whether it’s sharing job opportunities, giving advice, or just being there to support someone’s journey, Grow Remote lets us help each other and create success for everyone in the community.
The Impact of Remote Work on Small Towns and Villages
Remote work isn’t just changing individual lives - it can transform whole communities. By letting people work from anywhere, remote jobs are bringing work to small towns and villages that didn’t have many options before. This can bring new life to local businesses and communities.
Connect with Us
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Remote work is an incredible opportunity, but it doesn’t have to be a solitary one. Through Grow Remote, you’ll find support, new challenges, and a community that makes remote work not only productive but truly fulfilling.