The Pros & Cons of Outdoor Work

Outdoor work certainly isn’t for everyone. It can be cold and wet and it often means lots of physical labour. That said, for all its downsides there are a lot of benefits to outdoor work and many jobs people don’t immediately think of.

So today let’s talk about the pros and the cons of working outdoors and what to consider before taking an outdoor job.

The Benefits of Working Outdoors

First and foremost, we cannot understate the benefits of sunshine and fresh air. Not only is it good for your physical health but it’s good for your mental health too. Many studies show that people are much happier when they get the chance to spend at least some of their time outside, especially if they’re in an area of natural beauty.

Of course, for all the sunshine, there are plenty of rainy days but you’d be surprised how many outdoor workers enjoy a bit of variation in the weather. While extremes of temperature can be problematic – as we’ll talk about more later – many find that a healthy mix of rain, sun, and a dash of snow, breaks up the days and creates a pleasant sense of variation.

But it’s not just about the fresh air and the weather. There can also be economic benefits to outside jobs. Many outside jobs pay better at the entry level. This is because they tend to require more physical labour and can mean being out in all conditions. While that might seem like a benefit to some, there’s no denying that most of us would insist on a little more money to stand outside in the middle of a thunderstorm.

Even still, physical labour isn’t such a bad thing when you get used to it. Many outdoor workers find they don’t have to spend as much time at the gym to maintain a healthy weight. Exercise becomes baked into their daily routine, saving them time and money in the long run.

The Disadvantages of Working Outside

Okay, so we’ve tried our best to paint a pleasant picture, but there’s no denying that harsh weather just isn’t for everyone. Bad weather can worsen disabilities, increase your likelihood of getting, or just put you in a bad mood. While it’s always good to try working outside if you’ve not done it before, if this just isn’t for you, then that’s case closed.

If you’re still considering it, then there are some more factors you should also consider.

First of all, while these jobs often have better entry-level pay, your chances for advancement can be minimal. Outdoor jobs can be an absolute dead-end unless you’re able to find ways to upskill or job hop your way into a more senior position.

And then there’s the risk of physical injury. Many outdoor jobs, such as building or logging, mean working on sites where there’s always some potential for serious accidents. Although a responsible employer will take steps to mitigate and prevent this, the reality is that if you have to wear PPE to do the job, then there’s always a chance something can go wrong. It’s certainly not an extreme risk but it’s worth noting nonetheless.

Is it Right For You?

So is outdoor work right for you? At the end of the day, that’s a decision that depends a lot on your temperament and what you’re looking for in a job. That said, if you’ve never tried outdoor work, then we hope we’ve encouraged you to do so.

While there are certainly disadvantages that come with outdoor jobs, their severity can vary a great deal depending on the specific position. Plus, it’s hardly as though office work isn’t without its pros and cons either.

When all’s said and done, outdoor work has the potential to be an incredibly rewarding experience. If you’re tired of working behind a desk and want to try a complete change of pace, then why not have a look to see what’s available in your area?

Looking to get into outdoor work but not sure where to start? Here at Career Navig8r, whether you want to be a garage technician or a landscape gardener, we’ve got you covered. Browse our wide selection of expert mentors and find someone with the perfect skillset to push your career to the next level.