While there are many ways to work, in this blog post I want to dive into the techniques I use that help me successfully work from home.
Everyone has their own individual style of working and let’s face it some are better than others.
Remote work, not exactly a new normal
Remote work is actually not a new way of working. In fact, if you want to take it all the way back, hunter gatherers were the first people to work from home.
They worked and lived together as part of one community each contributing to a greater good.
Fast forward several centuries later and the 70s introduced us to new technologies that made “telework” possible.
Today, working from home seems like one of the best ways to work. I’m grateful to be in a position where I can work remotely in the comfort of my own home.
If I’m feeling overwhelmed, I can step away to clear my mind for a quick walk around the neighborhood.
COVID-19 is what made this possible. Many workplace hazards made it unsafe for people to come into the office.
Unfortunately, not everyone had this pleasure. Many with blue collar professions or those who are deemed essential workers were unable to work from home.
Is working from home really one of the best ways to work?
As with anything, people have their own opinions about remote work.
Those in senior leadership positions have their concerns about how much is actually being done.
Many companies like Amazon, Starbucks and Disney have placed return to work mandates on their employees.
Though, according to a Buffer survey, 99% of workers would prefer to work remotely at least some of the time, and 40% of remote workers believe the biggest benefit is the flexible schedule.
How to work from home for increased productivity
Have a set routine
You are fully responsible for your day, therefore you have to own it. At home, nobody is going to be over your shoulder watching you to make sure you’re getting your work done.
Though it will quickly show if you aren’t reaching your deadlines and that is not a position you want to face.
When you have a set routine, you’re saying to yourself that you are ready to show up for work. This means get dressed, don’t stay in the pajamas you wore last night to bed.
Part of the routine you create should include feeding yourself mentally and spiritually.
After breakfast spend time meditating or journaling so you have a sense of clarity before diving into your work day.
Related content:
How to establish a slow morning routine
Prepare your meals ahead of time
By meal prepping you don’t have to waste time trying to figure out what meal you will eat for the day. Even though you might not be going into the office, you can still prepare your meal ahead of time.
This way you can simply heat it up, eat then spend the rest of your break doing something else. I like to pick up a book and read for a few minutes before jumping right back into work.
Have a designated workspace
Not everyone can have their own home office. That is totally fine because you don’t need that. What you do need is a comfortable place you can work that isn’t your bed.
You need to work on something with a hard surface with a chair that supports your posture.
Target and amazon have both cute and affordable options. My first work from home office set up was a small desk in my bedroom.
Even though I did not have a ton of space, I made it work and I was still productive. So, don’t get too hung up over what it looks like.
Limit your distractions
Naturally, if you are distracted then you aren’t going to get anything done.
My biggest distraction is my phone and I don’t like putting it on do not disturb. Therefore, I’ll put it away in another room.
I’ll check it while I’m eating lunch or on a bathroom break but I find this works well for me.
Take regular breaks
The hustle can wait….let’s be real, you need to take a break. Drink some water and step away.
Constant busyness is actually very damaging. Just because you have an 8 hour work day does not mean you should be working for 8 hours straight.
This break could look like taking a quick drive just to get outside of the house or getting a quick workout in…just do something to get away.
In conclusion
The bottom line is the best ways to work is up to you. With these tips, you’ll be on your way to uncovering what works for you and your work day.
