Sep 23

Sep 23 The 10 Commandments of Working From Home

I’ve had a lot of friends and family ask me if I like working from home, and the answer is yes! There’s no commute, no office politics and it gives me a lot more flexibility when it comes to doctor, vet, horse, car appointments et al. But it isn’t all roses and lounging in my favorite yoga pants — it’s isolating and sometimes it’s plain uninspiring. For any of those considering making the switch, OR who already do I wanted to share a few good tips to get you through your workdays:

Thou Shalt Establish a Routine
Routines are key! Set your work hours and stick to them. Make sure your co-workers and employees are aware of these.
Thou Shalt Get a Pet (Or Some Plants)
Who else are you going to give employee of the month to?
On a serious note, having a pet or a plant to take care of provides a mostly good (okay, sometimes not) distraction. Having to take your dog out is a good way to take a brain break and get some puppy love in. Did you know just petting a dog reduces stress by lowering your heart rate and blood pressure? Having a pet is really just a good business and health investment.
Thou Shalt Plan Ahead
Whether you work for yourself or for a company as a remote employee, you’re your own time manager and scheduler. I like to plan all appointments, meeting, deadlines in as much advance so I’m prepared. I use a paper planner and my Google and iPhone calendars are synced so I’m sure to not miss anything!
Thou Shalt Take Breaks
Just because you work from home doesn’t mean you’re not entitled to taking breaks like you would at an office. Don’t overwork yourself or face burnout, take lunch, get out and grab a coffee — whatever you need to do to stay inspired and motivated!
Thou Shalt Put Your Phone Away
I’m guilty of overchecking my phone. My tip, put your phone on vibrate, get something checked off your list, then allow yourself the luxury of checking your missed messages.
Thou Shalt Exercise
Working from home probably means you won’t be as active. GET OUT AND EXERCISE!
Thou Shalt Look Presentable
This means shower, fix your hair etc. I feel better and more put together after I shower and do my hair, even if no one is going to see me all day.
Thou Shalt Establish Community
Working from home can get lonely! That’s why it’s important to establish a community that keeps you interacted with other humans outside of “the office”. Go to workout classes, join a Bible Study, volunteer!
Thou Shalt Keep Learning
Invest in yourself and your craft. You should set time aside monthly if not weekly to watch tutorials or read up on your business’ latest trends. I’m signed up for different emails from companies like Later.com to have the latest and greatest delivered straight to my inbox!
Thou Shalt Mix Up The Workplace Setting
While it’s important to have your own established workplace in your home — it’s also important to interact with other humans like you would if you worked in an office. Whether it’s a local coffee shop, cafe or co-working space, find a place to visit when you need to mix it up!