Working from home is becoming much more common. On the surface, it sounds ideal. You can work in your robe while you talk to your dog. You might even have your favorite movie on in the background. Your boss can’t even track your internet time! But working from home has its disadvantages, too.
It’s not as easy to get things done from home as you might think. You can also go a little stir-crazy if you’re not careful! Use these strategies to make working from home productive and enjoyable:
1. Stick to a schedule
Get up at the same time each day
Stick to your normal grooming routine
Sit down to work at the same time each day
Plan your lunch time.
Quit working at a set time
2. Dress effectively
Some people can take care of business just fine in their pajamas. Others might need to dress in their normal work clothes in order to get things done at a high level. Dress in a way that works for you.
3. Deal with the other people in your home.
Set boundaries and enforce them. You might have to tell your kids to leave you alone unless there is a real emergency. Friends might have to be told to stay away until 5:00 PM. Treat each day as you would if you were in the office Each household is unique. Set rules that work for you and don’t be shy about ensuring that everyone is respecting them.
4. Put in face time
Use video conferencing tools or actually head to the office occasionally if appropriate. Avoid only relying on the phone and emails for communication. It’s beneficial to see your coworkers, boss, employees, and clients or customers regularly if at all possible.
5. Plan breaks
Part of sticking to a schedule includes taking regular breaks. A break is a good time to clear your head, check on the kids, or let the dog out.
6. Get out of the house at least once each day.
It helps both your mental and physical health to get out of the house for at least a little while each day.
7. Communicate more
Communication can be less effective when you don’t have face-to-face contact.
8. Have a dedicated workspace
It can be tempting to spread out on the kitchen table; but are your papers going to stay where you put them? Can you have a decent phone conversation here? Are there too many distractions? Have a dedicated workspace that you and your family will respect.
9. Get some exercise
You might not think that you get a lot of exercise at work, but you probably get more at work than you do while working at home. At home, everything is close and convenient, so it makes a difference how much movement you experience each day.
Enjoy your time working from home but understand the potential drawbacks. It can be more challenging to get things done and it’s much easier to waste time if you’re not cautious. Working from home can have more distractions. Psychologically, it could be more challenging if you’re alone all day. Take a look at your job responsibilities, home-life, and your own idiosyncrasies. Develop a process that works for you.
Comments