Working Remotely and missing what?

It's been some time since I was "forced" to have a job where I came in to the office (or place of work since I didn't really have an "office" at that time) and left at a pre-defined time. Hence, it's always interesting to read about people completely detached from the office. Linked in the previous sentence, a blogger asks whether the grass is greener on the other side in the office. Without going into details, he pretty much writes about the drawbacks of being detached (costs, discipline, etc.) and not going into the office and hence missing the "benefits" of the interactions one has there. Well, I tend to ask myself the same questions in relation to my working style when reading such articles. I tend to go to the office every now and again. I'd say I spend 30-50% of my working time at the office (depending on work load). We're a small team and there simply are times when I have to be physically there. I could technically dial in for many of the meetings, but I live 1 km away from my office. The walk's nice (when it's not raining). Further, there simply are things to take care of which I can easily do when there. Sure, I could do it all via fax and post (expenses, signing contracts, etc.) but it's such a hassle and I like to get out. I'll walk my butt over for these things. At the same time, you have to be very careful to not "linger" too long in the office, getting caught up in all the gossip and complaining. Admit it, there really isn't that much work related interaction outside of work at the office. Let me clarify this a bit. Everyone talks about the necessary interactions at the office....the "water cooler" things. Well, I don't know about you, but I don't really hear much debate "at the water cooler" about company strategy. What I hear there is gossip, complaints, and general whining about one's life. Sure, some business issues come up, but as a side-note. People are generally inclined to complain, gossip, or whatever but not work when "at the water cooler". That's the whole point of getting away from the desk to the water cooler. This in my opinion is what I consider deadly about "being at the office". This is the reason I try not to be at the office too long. When I leave this crap out, I tend to be more motivated about my job, less irritated in my personal life, and generally optimistic about things. Too much time at the office and this all tanks. This isn't specific to my office but my observations over the years at all the offices I've worked at which is quite a few at this point. Hence, what to do?

I would recommend not living too far from your office. There's tons of information out there detailing what a waste driving to work is. All those hours stuck in traffic costs you time and money. Cut this out and you have more of both. This is plain and simple. If you can't figure this one out for yourself, well, I can't help you. Further, if you can be flexible about time in the office, don't "linger". Get in and out and detach from the ingrained notion of "facetime". Finally, learn to work effectively, not efficiently. If you're efficient for ten hours and effective for 5, net/net you should only focus on the 5 hours where you're effective. Efficiency is a horrible notion burned into our minds to make us look busy. If you're not focusing on "facetime", you don't need to be efficient. Focus on being effective and ignore the rest. No one will complain if you deliver results.

Let's recap:

1. Live near the office. Commuting is evil!

2. Don't "linger" in the office when there. Get in and out without the drama and ignore "facetime".

3. Be effective, forget efficiency.

Bonus Tip: Break rules regularly...don't ever get caught up in following other people's rules...adapt as you go.