In the fast-paced world of crypto, remote work has become the new normal for many digital currency devotees. The freedom to trade, analyze markets, and develop blockchain projects from the comfort of home is a dream come true. But this work-from-home renaissance is causing unexpected friction between flatmates over a previously mundane matter: utility bills.
The Great Bill-Splitting Debate
Meet Maeve and Richard, two crypto professionals sharing a flat in London. Maeve, a property specialist, commutes to the office four days a week. Richard, a copywriter, works fully remote. Pre-pandemic, the pair split all household bills 50/50 without issue. But now, Maeve argues that Richard should pay 60% of the electricity and heating costs since he’s home full-time, racking up charges.
I mentioned it in passing around two years ago, but we didn’t end up doing it… My concern mostly comes up in winter, when Richard likes to run the heating all day.
Maeve, crypto property specialist
Richard contends that a clean 50/50 split remains the fairest approach. He notes Maeve frequently has her boyfriend stay over, increasing overall usage. Richard also argues that Maeve’s tendency to leave the heat on overnight offsets his daytime use.
Maeve said I run the dehumidifier all day, but that benefits her too… She also mentioned that when I’m home I like to drink tea, but doesn’t everyone? How can we police how many cups of tea you’re allowed to make?
Richard, crypto copywriter
Pandemic Pressures
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the shift to remote work across industries, but the crypto sphere was particularly well-suited for the transition. Decentralized by nature, many blockchain startups and cryptocurrency exchanges had already embraced remote teams pre-2020. But few anticipated the strain this could place on personal relationships and living arrangements.
Maeve and Richard’s dilemma is becoming increasingly common as more crypto professionals, often young and urban-dwelling, navigate the etiquette of bill-splitting in an era of blended work and home life. With remote employment now a fixture rather than a passing fad, these once trivial flatmate spats are evolving into more consequential conflicts.
Seeking Consensus
Both Maeve and Richard raise valid points in their heated bill-splitting debate. Maeve asserts that it’s only fair Richard contributes more to utilities he disproportionately uses by working from home. Richard argues that keeping constant tabs is petty and erodes the trust flatmates share.
Some suggest a compromise: splitting bills 50/50 in summer months when heating costs are negligible, then adjusting to 60/40 in Richard’s favor during winter. Others propose Richard pays a larger share of the energy bills while Maeve covers more of the rent or other shared expenses to balance out costs.
Proposed solutions abound, but the true challenge lies in flatmates approaching the issue with empathy, open minds, and a commitment to fairness. In a world of digital assets and virtual workplaces, maybe it’s fitting that we must innovate new models for harmonious cohabitation as well.
The Takeaway
As more crypto disciples convert to the remote work gospel, domestic dramas like Maeve and Richard’s will only proliferate. Beyond the financial implications, these squabbles speak to deeper questions our increasingly digital society must grapple with:
- What defines fairness in a world without boundaries between work and home?
- How can we foster a culture of “give and take” as flexwork evolves?
- What novel living arrangements and social contracts must we forge?
In the end, there may be no universal rule for crypto’s cohabiting conundrums. Like the mercurial market itself, the “right” approach will fluctuate based on individual needs, shared values, and a willingness to adapt. So let’s approach these challenges with the same pioneering spirit that built the blockchain revolution – one thoughtful discussion (and utility bill) at a time.
