Remote Work Isn’t the Problem—Misused Autonomy Is
People who demand autonomy but display work ethics that require constant supervision are often the hardest to work with. They resist the structure that could help them grow, fighting what would improve them, while chasing a freedom they’re not ready for.
Worse, they become poor representatives of remote work culture. Their behavior is frequently cited in return-to-office discussions, undermining a valuable opportunity that can bring (and keep) people with disabilities, caregivers, and others with distinctive needs to work.
What’s more unfortunate is that most organizations have no real way to address this behavior. So they fall back on reductionist policies like “no more work from home.” They claim the only way to keep such individuals in check is to bring them back to the office—failing to see that this approach rarely solves the real issue.
In fact, bad behavior often finds more cover—and spreads faster—in shared environments.
Remote work is a privilege—and when done right, a powerful equalizer. We can’t let poor examples ruin it for those who truly need and respect it.
Remote work isn’t the problem. Misused autonomy is.