25 Years of Remote Work: Lessons from a Veteran WFH Journalist

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, remote work transitioned from a niche practice to a global norm almost overnight. While millions struggled to adapt to this new reality, Chris Taylor, a seasoned tech and culture journalist, had already been thriving in a work-from-home (WFH) environment for 25 years. His article, “Five Years of Remote Work? Try 25 Years,” published on March 22, 2025, offers a compelling blend of personal anecdotes, actionable advice, and reflections on the societal shift toward remote work.

The Early Days of Remote Work

Taylor’s journey began in March 2000 when he became the San Francisco bureau chief for TIME magazine. At that time, only 3.2% of Americans worked remotely, making his decision to forgo an office space in favor of a home setup unconventional. His home office, with its breathtaking view of the Golden Gate Bridge, quickly became both a sanctuary and a testing ground for navigating the challenges of remote work.

Despite the perks of working from home, Taylor faced hurdles such as feelings of guilt over his good fortune and the need to establish routines to combat loneliness. These early struggles underscored the importance of structure in maintaining productivity and mental well-being—a lesson that remains relevant today.

Adapting to a Pandemic World

When the pandemic struck in 2020, Taylor found himself in familiar territory while others scrambled to adapt. He humorously noted how the chaos of the outside world made his job easier. With sources more accessible online and in-person events canceled, Taylor likened the situation to a Doctor Who episode, reflecting, “Did you wish really hard?”

His long-standing experience provided him with insights into thriving in a remote work environment. From quirky tips like using cushions to prevent laptop overheating to emphasizing the psychological benefits of dressing for the day—even if only for the UPS delivery person—Taylor’s advice is practical and relatable.

Combatting Loneliness and Staying Balanced

One recurring theme in Taylor’s story is the challenge of loneliness. To combat this, he adopted creative solutions such as co-working with local artists or setting clear boundaries between work and personal life. His furry companion, Mowgli the cat, also played a pivotal role in keeping him grounded. So much so, Mowgli earned a special mention in the acknowledgments of Taylor’s book, *How Star Wars Conquered the Universe*.

During the pandemic, Taylor took on a personal challenge to hike the entire 250-mile Bay Area Ridge Trail, channeling his restlessness from being indoors into a fulfilling physical pursuit. This highlights the importance of finding balance and incorporating movement into daily routines for long-term health.

Broader Trends in Remote Work

By 2023, the percentage of Americans working from home had soared to 28%, a dramatic increase from the 3.2% recorded in 2000. Tools like Slack and Zoom have revolutionized communication, making remote collaboration seamless. Taylor shares anecdotes from friends adapting to WFH, including one who started wearing evening gowns as workwear—an example of how people personalize their remote work experiences.

The environmental benefits of remote work are another significant trend. Fewer commutes mean reduced carbon emissions, a topic explored further in Neal Broverman’s article, *“Remote Work Helps the Environment. Here’s How.”*

Key Takeaways for Thriving in Remote Work

Taylor’s reflections offer valuable lessons for anyone navigating the WFH landscape. While remote work provides flexibility and boosts productivity, it also demands discipline and balance. Establishing routines, combating isolation, and leveraging technology effectively are crucial components of success.

For those seeking creative solutions to WFH challenges, Taylor’s story serves as a testament to the power of adaptation. Whether through time management systems, ergonomic adjustments, or simply embracing the quirks of working from home, thriving in this new era of work is entirely possible.

Final Thoughts

Chris Taylor’s 25-year journey as a remote worker is both inspiring and instructive. By blending humor, practical advice, and personal insights, he paints a vivid picture of the evolution of remote work. As society continues to embrace this paradigm shift, Taylor’s story reminds us that with the right mindset and tools, it’s possible not just to survive but to thrive in the WFH landscape.

For anyone looking to master the art of remote work, Taylor’s experiences offer a roadmap filled with wisdom and encouragement.