Google the phrase “benefits of coworking” and you will get 609,000 links to articles, research, surveys, and other info touting how joining a collaborative business community will enhance your profitability and productivity, create opportunities for collaboration, solve your problems of isolation from potential clients, and help you grow your business.
But rarely do people talk about the financial, physiological, and environmental advantages. Those things that are more immediate and often measurable that improve our quality of life, stress levels, physical health, and familial bonds.
Growing up in the south, one of my favorite writers was Lewis Grizzard, famous for his witty take on southern culture. Although I didn’t agree with a lot of his musings, one epiphany he had (and the excitement with which he had it) has always stuck with me. Once, someone trying to insult him, called him a “smart-a** white boy”. With great vigor and zest, he said “FINALLY I know what I am! I’m a smart-a** white boy”. After years of inner conflict, he was now able to put a word to his professional calling.