Working from home has gone from a rare perk to an everyday necessity over the past few years. With more people telecommuting than ever, creating a productive and enjoyable home office environment is essential. The right tools and techniques can transform your makeshift workspace into a comforting sanctuary that inspires creativity. Follow these tips to make working from home a pleasure rather than a chore.
Create Dedicated Workspace
Don’t just plop your laptop on the couch or kitchen table each day. Set up a dedicated home office area if possible, even if it’s just a corner of your bedroom. An established workspace helps train your brain that it’s time to work when you’re in that spot. Make sure your desk and chair are ergonomic to avoid physical strain. Decorate your workspace in a way that motivates you, whether it’s family photos, vision boards, art, or favorite mementos.
Invest in Quality Equipment
Splurge on a good office chair, external monitor, keyboard, mouse, webcam, headphones, and other essential gear. The more comfortable your equipment, the fewer distractions and physical irritations you’ll experience. Purchase a standing desk converter if sitting all day bothers your back. Having the right tech tools for your job will make you more productive and efficient.
Keep Distractions at Bay
One challenge of working from home is keeping away from distractions. Turn off notifications on your computer and smartphone apps that aren’t essential. Put your phone in another room while working if you can. Use noise-cancelling headphones and productivity apps to minimize disruptions. Print out a “Do Not Disturb” sign on your home office door when you need uninterrupted focus time. Set boundaries with family about when you’re unavailable.
Maintain Regular Schedule
Working odd hours is tempting when you don’t have to commute to an office daily. But having a regular schedule helps maintain a solid work-life balance. Start and end your workday at the exact, consistent times. Take frequent breaks to stretch, grab a snack and hydrate. Establish set lunches and avoid working through them. Adhering to a routine boosts productivity and keeps the work from creeping into your time.
Dress for Work
You may be tempted to work in pajamas or lounge clothes when working from home. But trying to shower, dress professionally, and get ready for your day establishes a “going to work” mentality. Feel free to take a more casual approach if it helps your creativity, but don’t let laziness undermine your mindset. Video calls also necessitate looking presentable from the waist up, at least. Feel confident by dressing for your desired job, even if you only walk downstairs to your home office.
Personalize Your Space
Inject personality into your workspace to inspire you. Workspaces with natural light, greenery, and your favorite colors boost mental health. Display artwork, crafts, gifts, souvenirs, or photos that make you smile. Have snacks, beverages, stress balls, and other treats on hand. Surround yourself with items from hobbies you enjoy. Creating a personalized oasis lets you look forward to going to work.
Get Moving
It’s easy to become passive and stagnant working at home full-time. Make sure to take regular movement breaks for both physical and mental health. Stand up every 30 minutes to stretch, do desk exercises, walk around the house, or get your blood flowing. Even light yoga or using resistance bands keep your body energized. Schedule outdoor walking meetings for fresh air and vitamin D. Staying active prevents burnout.
Adjust Hours As Needed
While a set schedule provides structure, your workflow may fluctuate some days. If you’ve hit a wall by late afternoon, end your workday early to recharge. Have an inspired morning! Start working earlier to maximize productivity. Customize hours around personal appointments. Working from home allows adjusting schedules when needed to optimize effectiveness. Just communicate changes with colleagues and bosses.
Connect With Colleagues
Working remotely can feel isolating without water cooler chat and face-to-face collaborations: schedule video conferences and virtual hangouts to nourish relationships. Take advantage of chat apps like Slack to joke around and bond with co-workers. Email memes and gifs to lighten the mood. Remind colleagues you’re there to support them even if they are not physically present. And get out of the house to safely meet co-workers, clients, and friends when possible.
Set Work-Life Boundaries
Treat your work-from-home job the same as an office job regarding work-life separation. Log off computers and devices after hours. Designate areas of your home as work-only zones. Prioritize family time in the evenings and weekends. Disconnect from email to avoid the temptation to work odd hours. Being disciplined about boundaries prevents work from bleeding into your personal life at all times.
Working from home has pitfalls, but the right approach can be satisfying and productive. Follow these tips to create an enjoyable, inspiring home office environment tailored to your needs. With structure and self-care, telecommuting nurtures career growth and work-life balance.
