Which city should you work from: metropolis, small town, or remote?

In the past, working in IT often meant being confined to big cities. However, with the rapid population growth and changing work dynamics, are these cities still the ideal choice for professionals? In this blog post, I will share my personal experience and discuss the advantages of working in different settings – metropolis, small town, or remotely.

My Journey:

I began my career with IBM in Noida, India. While working there, I frequently visited Delhi and got a taste of life in a bustling metropolis. Later on, I moved to Pune in western India where I spent 3.5 years. During this time, I also had the opportunity to work with clients in Mumbai and Bangalore. Additionally, I briefly stayed in Hyderabad and found it to be an appealing city.

However, due to personal reasons and a desire to be closer to my parents who were established doctors with a thriving medical practice and social circle in our hometown, I made the decision to relocate to Mohali near Chandigarh – a smaller town located 150 kilometers away from my hometown. After completing my masters from BITS Pilani, I settled back in my hometown of Jalandhar and explored opportunities within the startup space.

The Remote Working Experience:

While working remotely for a Hyderabad-based startup after settling back home was initially driven by personal circumstances, it turned out to be one of the best decisions for my career growth. Remote work allowed me to learn more independently and provided me with greater flexibility. Not only did it save me commuting time but also enabled me to accommodate international clients by working late hours if needed.

The Benefits of Remote Work:

Personally speaking, remote work has been highly advantageous for me. It has allowed me to save money on commuting expenses while giving me the freedom to travel when required. Moreover, with the rise of remote opportunities due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I feel more secure about the future of remote work. As long as my current location remains stable, I am content with working remotely.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the choice of where to work – whether in a metropolis, small town, or remotely – depends on individual preferences and circumstances. While big cities offer a vibrant atmosphere and numerous career opportunities, small towns provide a sense of community and a more relaxed lifestyle. Remote work, on the other hand, offers flexibility and independence. Ultimately, it is important to consider personal goals, work-life balance, and career growth when deciding which option suits you best.

What works for you? Share your thoughts in the comments below!