Before we get into how to work from home, let me start by saying:
I hope everyone reading this is safe and healthy.
These are unsettling times, and for many of us, working from home is a routine we’re settling into. Remember: having the ability to do so makes us fortunate. Let’s count our blessings and remember this as we navigate any growing pains related to adapting to a work from home routine.
At this point I am a full-time work from home business consultant. Because of this I wanted to take a moment to share some helpful tips I have for those learning to do the same.
Here we go…
Be kind to yourself
This one is super important and is somehow the easiest to forget. As you start working from home, keep in mind that this is a major shift so give yourself a break. Expect to go through periods of being unmotivated. Initially you may think it will be an easy transition if you already work from home part-time. I assure you though, transitioning from working from home occasionally to working from home full time is a big adjustment. Understand that you and the company you work for will learn to adapt to this new routine.
We’re not sure how long this will last. So try and enjoy it. It’s OK to sleep in a bit later, or take a longer lunch (one you actually make yourself!). Order curbside, or work a bit later than you normally would. Enjoy the new freedom this gives you to fit in some of the important things you may have not had the time for before this change in workstyle.
Pick Your Spot
Create a space where you feel you can truly work from home. Make it a workstation, set up a “desk” and whatever else you need to get into work mode. Avoid working in bed or on the couch as it sends the wrong message to your brain that this is a time to relax.
Whether you’re in a studio apartment, a cabin in the woods or surrounded by your children, carving out some small area in your home that is your workspace will help you get into the right head space to work from home. Have everything in one place when you get started each morning. If you can’t leave your work out overnight because you have a shared space, roommates or children, create a system to store your computer and paperwork, as well as a charging station for all of your tech. A rolling cart works great. This will make it easy and stress-free when you set up your “office” and get your day off on the right foot.
Set Up Your Tools & Tech
Working from home may require you and your team to set up some tools and technology you didn’t have or use before. You won’t be able to call IT if you run into any issues. Make sure your computer software is up to date. Ensure your WiFi is working properly and reaches your new workspace. Get an extender if you have to. Having the tools to stay connected to your team is essential to maintain productivity. We personally love Zoom for meetings with multiple people, but Skype, Facetime, Google Teams, Voxer and Slack are great tools to help you stay connected while you work from home. While you’re at it: invest in a new set of headphones that will help block out any unwanted background noise or to play your favorite tunes to jam out to!
Create Your Schedule and Stick to It
It’s easier to be productive in a distracting environment if you schedule out specific time blocks for working and focus on one thing at a time. This can be determined by your teams or by your preferences depending on what your specific work from home situation is. Communicate your schedule to your kids, your roommates and your boss and co-workers. It doesn’t have to be (and likely won’t be) the same as your normal office hours. Chances are things in your life have changed. Some have had to take on all the full-time childcare or are now caring for an aging family member as well as working full-time. Flexibility is okay, expected, and is one of the great perks of working from home. It’s just key to communicate with those around you.
Get Dressed
It seems simple, but this isn’t a Saturday. Put your work clothes on and it’ll instantly put you in the right headspace to get to work and stay productive through the workday. Staying in your “daytime” PJs or sweatpants will only further remind you that you’re working from home. Even though technically you are, the point is to try maintain some level of professionalism and productivity. Getting dressed kickstarts your focus and motivation for the day ahead. You’ll be surprised at how different you feel when you put on pants with a zipper.
Set Up Accountability
If you’re finding it hard to stay on task, set up an accountability buddy or use an app to help keep you focused. “Co-work” in an open Zoom room. I personally use Caveday.org to stay on track. Having someone to bounce ideas off of or interact with can be immensely helpful in keeping you on task. Also, having someone there to keep you honest if you’re not working or get sidetracked makes a difference.
Make a list for yourself and then actively cross things off as you get them done. Consistently accomplishing tasks throughout the day will keep you motivated and productive as you adjust.
Remember: this is going to be different and a change from what you’re used to. Don’t be too hard on yourself and make the most of your time without being too rigid about what “normal work hours” and what productivity means in this new work environment.
What are your tips for working from home? Reach out or share in the comments!