When our unexpected (and unwanted) friend Covid hit us in early 2020, we didn’t expect our homes to become the epicenter of literally everything! Most of us brought our work home and immediately had to adjust to this new way of life. If you’re me, you barely have any space for a decent sized workspace but you made the most of it. Fast forward to one year later and we still find ourselves in the same place – likely still using the kitchen table to prop your computer monitors and sitting on a bar stool with little to no back support (ouch!).
While you may have developed some key strategies to remain productive and comfortable, here’s a little reminder on how to maintain your badass working self from home, owning your space, and being even more productive than you ever thought you could be!
Work from Home (and not lose your sh*t!):
1. Set up your workspace – This tip is on the top of the list for a reason. Without a proper workspace setup, getting anything done can be quite difficult! Now since we’re at home, it may be time to improvise! Perhaps you have an unused surface that can double up as a desk where you can place a laptop and monitors while still having some space for office supplies. Perhaps your work will even expense a sit/stand work surface with an ergonomic chair – now is the time to take advantage of that! Being comfortable and supported is key here and having the ability to take a break from sitting will revitalize you. Just think of how productive you’ll be! Feel free to also add those personal touches that really make your workspace your own – plants, artwork, maybe an essential oil diffuser will do. Need more tips for a balanced workspace? Check out my post on ‘How to Feng Shui Your Desk’ here.
2. Develop a routine (and stick to it!) – Having a set routine in place is key to work from home success. You shouldn’t have to sacrifice your morning ritual routine or feel obligated to hit the power button on the laptop as soon as you hop out of bed! In fact, without the typical daily office commute, this should allow you the freedom and added time to start your day the way you want to. Rise with the sun, set intentions for your day, and even take some time to mediate (10 minutes does wonders!) all while enjoying your favorite cup of coffee will allow you to visualize a successful day ahead and savor the me time before a hectic work day begins.
3. Have a to-do list – To-do lists are my absolute fav! I really don’t know how I would ever survive without my to-do lists. Not only do these lists give me a visual representation of my daily tasks at hand but, with everything physically written down, it eliminates the mind chatter and constant ‘I need to do this’ and ‘I need to do that’ because it’s been accounted for on the list. Also, think about how awesome it feels to strike off each completed task! SO rewarding.
4. Communicate – Whether you live with roommates, your love, or kiddos, it’s important to all be on the same page and respectful of one another’s space when working. If you have an important call on your calendar that day, let your peeps know you’ll need some quiet time between 11am-12pm. If I’m on a video call, I’ll give my boyfriend a heads up so he’s mindful of not showing up in the background half dressed!
5. Take breaks – Working from home doesn’t mean you are chained to your desk all day! Take your usual hour lunch break, set yourself reminders to get up and move or stretch, and give your eyes a break from the screen. I love taking a mid day break to take my pup for a walk and enjoy some time in the San Diego sun. It’s a wonderful way to recharge before getting back to my to-do list. I also love a good 20-30 minute workout towards the end of my work day. It gives me the final kick of energy I need to complete my work day.
Wishing you a productive and balanced work day and, remember, you got this girl! As always, leave your comments and suggestions below!