Is Work a Thing You Do or a Place You Go?

This week, my “office” has been wherever I choose to open my laptop. Today, it’s set against a backdrop so breathtaking that it’s hard to call this “work” at all. Yet, the tasks, meetings, and projects continue uninterrupted – a testament to how work has evolved.

It got me thinking about a key question from our recent poll: What is your preferred working environment for 2025?

As the poll closes tomorrow, there’s still time to share your thoughts, but the overwhelming response so far points to a clear trend – most people no longer see work as a place you go, but as something you do, wherever and whenever it makes sense.

Amazon vs. Spotify: Contrasting Work Environments

The debate about the future of work often centers on two opposing philosophies:

• Amazon’s “Return to Office” Policy
• Amazon has doubled down on in-office work, citing the importance of collaboration, innovation, and culture-building that can happen face-to-face. Their stance highlights the belief that physical proximity drives productivity and connection.
• Spotify’s “Work From Anywhere” Approach
• Spotify, on the other hand, has embraced a flexible model, allowing employees to work from wherever they are most productive. By focusing on outcomes rather than physical presence, they’ve made flexibility a cornerstone of their culture.

Both approaches have their merits. Amazon’s model prioritizes structured environments and in-person collaboration, while Spotify’s recognizes the diverse ways people achieve their best work.

What Does This Mean for You?

The choice between these two philosophies often comes down to personal preference and the nature of your role. Do you thrive on in-person brainstorming sessions and watercooler conversations, or do you find your focus and creativity flourish when you have control over your environment?

Our poll results show that flexibility is more than a perk – it’s becoming a necessity for many. Whether it’s the freedom to work from home, a co-working space, or a stunning location like my current “office,” people want the ability to shape their work environment.

The Final Call: Share Your Voice

As the poll closes tomorrow, this is your last chance to weigh in. The link to vote is in the comments, and I’d love to hear your perspective. Are you team Amazon, valuing the structure and connection of an office, or team Spotify, embracing the freedom and adaptability of remote work?

Wherever you stand, the conversation about work as a thing you do versus a place you go is shaping the future. Let’s explore how we can balance these preferences to build workplaces that work for everyone.

So, where do you see yourself working in 2025?