It may have started with the first wave of the pandemic in 2020, but many companies have shifted their focus and have employees working from home on a more permanent basis. For many families, this has presented many challenges from actual workspace to balancing work and life commitments. While it may have been easier for some, it still has been an adjustment for all.

To help aid in this transition, I thought we’d go through some tips that would make a great start.

Choose your workspace

While lounging on your couch may seem like a perfect spot to sit with your computer and get some work done, it isn’t conducive to the most productive use of your time. Find a space in your home where you can set up a desk, computer, and all the office essentials you need to do your job effectively. Make sure you are free from the noise and traffic of the household. This way you can make the best use of your time and produce your best work.

Get ready for your workday

One of the easiest things to do is to throw on some sweats or stay in your jammies and start to work. Instead, stay in the same routine as you would do when going to the office. Studies show that when you’re dressed and ready to tackle your day, you are much more productive.

Establish consistent work hours

Even though you are working from home, get on a routine of “work” hours. Treat your day the same as you would in the office.  Yes, there will be emergencies and times that you will NEED to attend to other things, but if you consistently stick to a regular routine, you will be more productive, and your work/life balance will be much easier and more abundant.

Take a lunch break

It may sound like a given, but many times when we work from home, we tend to work through the lunch hour and try to cram in the time to get done earlier. While this may be fine to do occasionally, it goes against establishing a routine and it’s not good for your body either.  You need good nutrition to be at your optimum throughout the day.

Always use a To-Do list!

This works for home/office tasks. Scheduling your tasks will keep you on track and allow you to feel the gratification of the tasks completed. It helps keep you moving forward through your day. Positive reinforcement is the best!

Invest in quality technology

When working from home don’t skimp on a great computer & printer and high-speed internet connection. Nothing ruins your day faster than trying to accomplish even the simplest digital task and having your internet speed or computer take forever to do it! You also want to make sure your desk and chair are of great quality.  After all, you’ll be spending a good portion of your time there so it needs to be perfect for you!

When the workday is done…it is DONE!

A word to the wise, working from home does not mean you work at all hours of the day and night. That is why establishing a schedule and routine is so vitally important. When your workday is done, it is time to close your computer, shut your office door- or space- and be done for the day. It is now time to move on to family time.

It is so important not to blur the lines.  Work/life balance is critical. Yes, we need to work, but our families are so important in our lives, and we need to dedicate our full attention and time to them. When the workday is completed it’s time to turn all our attention to them and ourselves.  Tomorrow is another day, and our work will be waiting.

Is your current home suitable for working at home? Do you need to find a home that will allow you to effectively work from home?  If you do, let’s chat and find a home that meets ALL your needs and make 2022 a perfect year for you and your family.