As you know, the way we work has evolved significantly in recent years. Or perhaps, more accurately, where we work has changed quite a lot over the last half decade. With the rise of remote and hybrid work models, employees and entrepreneurs are no longer tied to traditional office spaces. It doesn’t matter if you’re a freelancer, small business owner or part of a distributed team, you can find ways to work remotely in 2025.
But where are the best environments for being productive and creative on the job?
Coffee shops.
Yes, we know that this must sound cliché. After all, nearly every Tim Hortons and Starbucks we’ve visited has numerous customers typing away on their laptops. These venues make great work spaces for remote workers. With free Wi-Fi, a steady supply of caffeine and ambient background noise, coffee shops strike a balance between social interaction and focus. They provide casual yet energetic atmospheres that double as great locations for meetings.
According to Jordan Pulley of Perfect Daily Grind, coffee shops provide a reliable and more affordable alternative to co-working spaces, especially when they have adequate seating, power outlets and stable Wi-Fi. “Moreover, when remote workers are mindful of how long they stay in coffee shops, they can provide a steady revenue stream on a regular basis, and can even help strengthen the sense of community in these spaces,” he writes.
Libraries.
They worked for you back in high school, didn’t they? Public libraries are traditionally quiet by nature. If you’re looking for a calm and tranquil location for work, you can’t go wrong with your local library. Not only do they generally provide comfortable seating and ample desk space, public libraries offer free Wi-Fi. Be sure to check your local library’s policies on remote work and whether they offer private rooms for calls or meetings.
“Instead of uncomfortable study carrels, libraries now have lounge seating to create cozy places to stay awhile,” reports Global Furniture Group, “Benching can be found alongside meeting rooms to support productivity and collaboration for anyone who books it. In King City, Ontario, the expansion of King City Public Library features a dedicated Maker Space for creative collaboration, quiet focus rooms, an iPad bar, a larger community room, and lounge areas.”
A home office.
For many remote workers, there truly is no place like home. You won’t be surprised to know that working from home is the most common remote work option. However, it’s vitally important to set up a dedicated workspace. It’s considered essential for getting your work done. Trying to conduct your daily duties in front of a television does not make for a productive work day.
In addition, as Jennifer Gorman of TurboTax reminds us, an added bonus to having a home-office is that you can deduct numerous expenses on your tax return. “The absolute best way to reduce the amount of tax owing is to claim every single tax credit and tax deduction that is available (and applicable) to your business,” she informs.
Do you work outside of a traditional office?
Did you know that, with Unity Payments’ Virtual Terminals, you can turn your smartphone, tablet or laptop into a credit card terminal? With any mobile device, you can start accepting payments anytime and anywhere. You can process payments in-person, online or on the road! For more information, please don’t hesitate to call us at 1-800-661-3761 or email us at info@unitypayments.ca.
