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Years ago I shared a post on tips to work from home successfully. Throughout my career, I’ve had many opportunities to work from home. It can seem glorious at first but it’s easy to get in a funk. I’ve rounded up some of my best advice and I hope this helps you if you currently working from home!
SET UP YOUR SPACE
One of struggles of working from home is having a comfortable work space. While it may seem fun to work from bed or the couch, you’ll feel the repercussions quickly. I know how hard it can be if you don’t have a home office or dedicated work space. Make the most of your dining table, coffee table, or whatever space you have. Clear off your surface. Wipe it down (I do this because my cat walks on everything!). Grab your work essentials. Add items for comfort (pillows, blanket, or anything else). Make yourself a nice drink (maybe get creative with some fun spa water). Viola!
CREATE A MORNING ROUTINE
This has been the best thing I’ve done for myself. I try to wake up around the same time and give myself roughly 30 minutes to get ready. I eat breakfast, take my vitamins, brush my teeth, wash my face and get dressed. I put on makeup (sometimes), meditate (via Headspace) and journal (five minute journal). Also, I sometimes like to complete a home-related task (unloading the dishwasher, starting laundry, etc). I have the most energy in the morning and it sets me up for a more productive day! Although this may seem like a lot in 30 minutes, I make really simple breakfasts so it leaves me plenty of time for everything else. If you want meal prep ideas, Joe and I made this video about his breakfast and lunches.
GET DRESSED
Here is where I struggle most. I have a habit of staying in my pajamas far longer than is acceptable. Growing up I always prepared my outfits for the school week ahead. To get over this hurdle, I’ll prep my outfits next week and see if that helps me get dressed earlier. Luckily it’ll be relatively easy because I don’t have to worry about weather changes!
STAY CONNECTED
Technology makes us more connected than ever. Take advantage of your resources by FaceTiming a friend you haven’t talked to in a while, starting a chat room with your coworkers or setting up a virtual game with a friend. I created a photo album for my team so everyone can share photos of their workspace, pets, or other work from home adventures.
MAKE A GRAB LIST
With the time you gain from not commuting, create a list of things you enjoy doing and/or tasks you want to accomplish. To streamline this further, assign an estimated time to each item so you can plan accordingly. For example, I have cleaning out the fridge on my list and that will take me about 30 minutes. I also have Pilates on my list because I love Club Pilates and those classes are 50 minutes (+ driving time). If you are feeling isolated, overwhelmed or just need a break, ‘grab’ something from the list that fits with your current mood.
