Most people think working from home sounds extremely fun and relaxing. Sure, when you work from home, you can wake up a little later, have some breakfast, and stay in your pajamas. However, there’s also a lot of stress that stems from problems in communication and procrastination that just aren’t there at work. If you are working from home, here are some tips to make the whole experience that much better…
Envision A Great Workspace
This is where it all begins! Make sure that your workspace motivates you to start – and keep – working. Of course, it’s certainly possible to stay in some comfy PJs and just spend the day working from the couch. It’s certainly what people think of when they hear “working from home.” However, this habit will lead to more procrastination and less focus. If you can, great a work-like environment at a home: a clean, working desk, office chair, plant, so on. If leaving the house is not an option, take advantage of local coffee shops and coworking spaces.
Find Professional Gear
When technology does not work its best, working can become quite difficult. Does your laptop lag or do your earphones let in the sounds of the outside world? Consider changing them to something more professional and reliable. Purchase noise-canceling headphones so it’s okay to work around others in a busy place, and don’t forget that an old computer can break easily and lose all your work in an instant. Some other things to think about: a good Wi-Fi connection, portable mouse and keyboard, and perhaps even a second screen. It can make all the difference in the world!
Don’t Forget About Communication
When working from home, one often needs to communicate with a lot of people. While getting away from that awful co-worker might seem great, it means you can no longer just lean over and ask a question or give them an update. So, fluid communication of goals and progress is of the utmost importance while working from home. First, use a task-management software to create daily, weekly, monthly, or perhaps even yearly goals, and send them to those who need to see them. Knowing where you stand can help managers keep track on everyone, especially if they don’t all working in the same office, or even in the same country!
Meanwhile, if you’re in charge of someone else, make sure they do the same! It’ll make your life so much easier.
Create A Reliable Schedule
There’s no one schedule that will work for everyone working from home. Much of it will depend on the physical levels and natural schedule of your personal body. Some are morning birds, while others are night owls. What’s important is to schedule yourself every day and get into habits. Distractions will fall by the wayside if you have a reliable schedule, regardless of if you start work at 8 AM or 8 PM.
Most importantly, remember to take breaks and rest enough, as it can become hard to separate business from relaxation. Take naps, go out to the gym, and grab a beer with friends in the evening or a cup of coffee in the middle of the day! Don’t let work become the priority; in short, maintain a healthy work-life balance, just as you would if you worked in an office. Good luck!
Sources: Finance101, Remote Year