Our daily work schedule has changed a lot during these past few weeks, whether you have been asked to work from home or you already work remotely, we are all facing a new reality with different challenges – for those who work from home now have spouses and children at home and those who are now calling home their office aren’t quite prepared with a workspace. We are all trying to adapt to the new normal and it’s not easy, so I am offering a few tips to create a productive work from home environment.
If you’re new to the work-from-home lifestyle – a space to work and creating a routine will be at the top of the list.
- Set a schedule… and stick with it – whenever possible! Set your hours as a guideline to know when to say when. Ending the work day on time is just as important as starting it. Factor in breaks and lunch. Having said that, leave room for flexibility – there may be an early morning conference call, so allow yourself to “clock out” earlier that evening. If you’re homeschooling your kids – sync their schedule with yours.
2. Create a routine. This will help you stay on track and keep your sanity! Begin each day as you would under normal circumstances – wake up at a certain time, have your coffee, read the news, prayer/meditation time, workout… whatever your routine may be, let it be your daily guideline to ensure you “get to work” on time, take advantage of family time and focus on self-care each day.
Virtual Vocations shares a great list to inspire your morning routine.
3. Set boundaries. While you are setting your schedule, share it with the household to ensure they know when you will be busy. If there is a door to your workspace, invoke the knocking rule. Set clear guidelines for household chores and tasks – just because you are home doesn’t mean you need to take on all the to-do’s.
4. Create a functioning workspace. If you don’t have a separate office or a designated work space, you will need need to make this your top priority. Take your posture into account – in other words, the sofa may not be the best spot in the house. Keep the necessities within reach and in spot – daily planner, pens, folders, electronics, etc. And, declutter! It has been proved that by decluttering a space it boosts productivity and decreases stress (something we could all do with right now!)
Let’s remember to support our small businesses – here are a few desk essentials I think you’ll love!
How did you set up your home office space? Do you have a helpful tip you would like to share? We’d love to hear from you!
Kindly~Michelle
