With recent events, more people are able to work from home. Large conferences have been canceled, sports games and even Las Vegas closed down the strip. It’s such a crazy time right now, but we will be ok.
Some employers are encouraging and or requiring people to work from home for an indefinite period of time. If you are new to the work-from-home lifestyle, you may find it difficult to get into a rhythm.
I’ve worked from home for many of my positions in the past. I had a job where we got to work from home 3 days a week. I also worked from home after being fired from my position in healthcare in 2016, and now as a full-time entrepreneur. I will say there are some challenges and also some great things about working from home.
You are now faced with figuring out when to work, where to work, and how to create boundaries between your work and personal life (story of my life). You may have to think about what office equipment you need for home etc. But you totally got this! Here are 7 tips for a super productive work from home life. Please note that these tips are based on my experience and what I’ve learned from others about working from home.
How To Work From Home Effectively
Put yourself on a regular schedule
Having a set schedule really works well for me. Set a schedule, and stick to it. Be as consistent as you can, and that is whatever consistent means for you. It takes time to build a habit so don’t be discouraged. For me having clear guidelines for when I want to work and when I want to call it a day helps me have a work-life balance. I am super flexible with my days, sometimes getting up ear4ly and finishing early work for me and others a late start and a late end. Try out which way works best for your schedule.
There are even apps where you can keep track of your time like Automatic time-tracking apps, like Due Time Tracking. This app is free! It lets you track time with automatic idle time detection.
Create A Workspace
It’s so tempting to stay in bed and work but I have a set area on my kitchen table for now until I get an office. I just feel better when I am at a designated place with everything I need. If you don’t have a desk your dining room table is just fine. Getting dressed daily also helps me when working from home. It’s so hard not to work in your PJs!
Schedule Breaks
It’s not good just to work for hours on end. If your company has a policy on break times make sure you know about them and take them. If you’re Entrepreneurs, give yourself enough time during the day to walk away from the computer screen and also your phone. Remember to take lunch too!
Stay Connected
If you can stay connected to colleagues and people you know. Working from home can be lonely but you can still connect and check-in with your team and also your friends.
Stay Organized
I am a list type of girl and I need to be organized in order to work efficiently. If you can create to-do lists to keep yourself organized and focused throughout the day. I love Trello and also Asana for keeping myself on track with my projects.
Get Fresh Air
Go for a walk, open the window. Fresh air is good for you. I know times may be crazy right now but believe me, a good walk can really make your day.
Stay Positive
Keeping a positive mindset is best. I know the current situation may not be the best, but we will get through this. Working from home has its perks and its cons but you have to find the positive in the situation. If you feel that you aren’t getting enough work done, assess what activities are preventing you from being productive and figure out how you can change them.
Related: 5 Things To Do In The Morning To Jump Start Your Day
You got this!
xo
Michelle
