Working from home has a lot of advantages. Balance between work and home, improved performance, and increased productivity are all potential benefits. I’ve worked remotely for years and I’ve found that I have more time to get things done both professionally and personally. The time I save on commuting alone is huge. However, it took time to really get proficient.
Here’s a short list of things that helped me:
Create a dedicated office space. In the beginning, my office was a desk in my bedroom. It was small but it worked. As my business grew, so did the need for more space and more privacy. I transformed a room, in my home, into my personal work space. This isn’t always possible, but even a well equipped corner or closet can be transformed into a space that fills the need for an office. Now when I step into my office I feel motivated to create, work, and learn. It was a game changer for me. I am more productive and focused. It also helps me to set boundaries. When I’m in my office, I’m working. When I shut my computer off and close the door my workday is done. Which brings to me my second point.
Set boundaries. It can be very easy to let your work invade your personal life. Set work hours and stick to them. It may help you to be accountable if you let your clients, boss, and co-workers know what hours you are available. When you have completed your designated work hours, make a task list for the next day. This will serve to close out and wind down your workday as well as get you organized for tomorrow. It may even give you some time the next morning to develop a routine.
Create a morning routine. Now that you don’t have to rush out the door and race to work in the mornings, you can relax and enjoy a morning routine that you always wanted. Ask yourself what your perfect workday morning looks like. Perhaps preparing a hot breakfast, taking a walk, exercising, or creating time for some quiet solitude will be part of your plan. What will it take to get you in the right mindset for work?
Do not work in your pajamas. Getting dressed for work will help shift your mind from down time to work time. Being and looking professional is still important, and what you wear should be taken seriously. It doesn’t have to be a suit, but wear clothes that will help you to work and be productive. Curling up on the couch with a laptop in sweats doesn’t promote productivity, unless you can get paid for taking a nap.
Exercise and eat healthy snacks. It is so tempting to eat unhealthy snacks when working from home. Food is accessible all day long and you're sitting at your desk not far from the kitchen. Pack your pantry with healthy snacks and schedule to walk/run/do some light exercise during the day. The days that I take a walk around lunchtime are some of my most productive days. The combination of exercise and healthy food helps me stay focused and energized during work time, and I feel ready to unwind and enjoy time with my family at the close of my workday.
These are some tips that have worked well for me. As you settle into a schedule of working from home, you’ll be able to create routines and personal guidelines that help to keep you productive and balanced.
