17 Jul Tips for Successfully Working from Home

April 20, 2020

Successfully Working from Home

Due to possible COVID-19 exposure many workers are being forced to work from home. Most of us have enjoyed the comfort and short commute to the office. However, we also discovered that finding the right balance between household and work responsibilities is a real challenge. As a self-employed small business owner, I have worked from a home office for the last 4 years. Here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your remote worksite:

Develop A Regimen

Keep the same daily routine that you practiced before the epidemic quarantine. Keep your usual wake up time, shower and dress appropriately for any unexpected video calls. Set aside time to enjoy lunch, then back to work. Remember routine is everything!!

Have A Dedicated Space or Room to Call The Office

If you do not have a home office, it is essential to find a place where you can conduct calls, meetings, and the ability to focus with minimal or no interruption. My office is a separate building located directly behind my home. I achieve so much more being separate from everything going on in my house. I realize most of us do not have the luxury to have a separate office so make sure you have a space that is for work, and separate yourself as much as possible from your normal household activities.

Move Indoor Activities Outdoors

Getting outside from time to time is one of the best things you can do for your state of mind while working from home. Studies have shown that our demeanor and cognitive ability increase when we are outside. It’s so easy to become immersed in screen time in the house, why not take your laptop out on the porch or a local park?

Make a List to Stay Focused

Always plan your calendar before the end of your work time. A simple to-do list can do wonders for helping you stay organized, motivated, and productive as you work from home. My list features three items: Items that MUST be completed, items that NEED to be completed and Items that it would be NICE (but not essential) to complete. Check these off as you achieve them. This allows you to see your progress as the day goes on.

Finally, always ask yourself, what will set you apart from every other person in your role working from home? In the end it is YOU! Focus on being the kind of person in which you would want to do business. Oh, and one more thing… don’t forget to smile