Working is an essential part of life. Almost everyone is expected to work sooner or later to earn a living. However, a dream job could end up a nightmare what with all the different factors such as long work hours, traffic and commuting, and the lack of time for self. That is why flexible workplaces were introduced - making even a bad job, great.

Flexible workplaces or work arrangements is basically changing when, where, and how a person works to greatly benefit both not only the employer, but more importantly, the employee.

But this mutually beneficial arrangement is not only good for work, but according to a new study done by University of Minnesota professors Erin Kelly and Phyllis Moen, flexible workplaces can improve an employee's health behavior and well-being.

In the researchers' study, data was collected from 608 employees of a white-collar organization before and after a flexible workplace initiative was implemented. This included looking at the changes in health-promoting behaviors and health outcomes among the employees.

Based on their study, findings show that employees under a flexible workplace got an extra 52 minutes of sleep at night before work. It was also found that employees managed their health better, going to a doctor when necessary, even when busy. And in addition, employees under a flexible arrangement got a sense of schedule control, reducing work-family conflict.

But aside from these notable benefits, according to BusinessKnowHow.com, a flexible workplace can also:

  • Improves job satisfaction, morale, and productivity
  • Enhances employee recruitment and retention
  • Increases energy and creativity
  • Reduces absentism
  • Reduces stress and burn out

With all of these benefits, it is hard not to consider having a flexible workplace. But having a flexible arrangement to suite both work and personal reasons should be asked for the right reasons. According to WomensMedia.com, here are some reasons to consider:

  • To have uninterrupted time to complete certain tasks and to accommodate urgent work requests
  • To be available to colleagues and clients in other time zones
  • To address life interests and needs put aside during periods of heavy workload
  • To avoid long commutes
  • To care for children or sick family members
  • To exercise, engage in hobbies and community activities
  • To pursue additional education or certificates