7 Tips for Working From Home

Is it WFH or WFQ?

For many it’s work from quarantine. With the spread of COVID-19, a lot of you have been asked to work from home in the name of social distancing and safety instead of heading into the office. Working from home may seem like a dream, but as many of you may be finding this week, it’s quite an adjustment switching from a social office environment to your home or apartment. So how do we master this WFH thing? As someone who’s worked from home as a blogger over the years, I’d like to welcome you to the WFH family! Know that you are not alone and many are experiencing what you are feeling. I’ve got 7 tips to help us remain focused and productive during these uncertain times.

1. Stick to your normal routine

Wake up at your normal time, shower, eat breakfast - do everything that you normally do at the time that you normally do it. What to do during your normal commute time? Thoughtfully create your to-do list for the day and prioritize what needs to be done first. When work is over, close your laptop and "clock out" for the rest of the day. Healthy work-life boundaries are crucial when working from home.

2. Get dressed for the day

Yes, you should still be getting dressed to work from home. Taking off those PJs and getting into clean clothes makes a world of difference for your mental state. Staying focused on work can be tough at home, but you'll be amazed by how much putting on presentable clothes can help. **BONUS** You'll also be ready and look professional for all those Zoom video meetings! Don't know what to wear? Check out these 5 WFH outfits from the TWWW team.

3. Designate a work space

And respect it as such. Working productively from home will depend almost entirely on setting aside a specific work space and sticking to using it. The size of your home or apartment will play a factor, but it doesn't have to be perfect - a space at the dining room or kitchen table is good enough. As long as your new work space allows you to feel focused and alert, your chances of productivity will increase. Avoid working from your bed or couch if you can.

4. Limit Distractions

Now is not the time to tackle that house project you said you were going to do 3 months ago or see what the hype is about on Netflix's Love Is Blind. I get it, being home can feel like it's a time to kick back and relax, but remember that you are still on the clock. Try to ignore personal tasks and chores during your normal work hours. These tasks are a time suck (there's a reason you've been avoiding them for so long) and can be done when you are off the clock. Also, the tv does not exist until you are off the clock.

5. Podcasts and music can bring focus

For many of us social interaction creates productive energy, however working from home alone can create feelings of isolation. Podcasts are a great way to recreate water cooler talk or create informational background noise - one of our favorites at TWWW is The Women from iHeart Radio. If podcasts and people talking are too distracting then music may be a better option for you. Apps like Spotify (create a FREE account!), Apple Music, Tidal, and even the Calm meditation app can create background noise that allows you to focus and be productive. If you're home with others or kids, make sure you grab a pair of headphones to drown out any noise that may distract you.

6. Take a lunch break

A 30 minute break doesn't only apply when you're in the office. Taking a break gives your brain a moment of relief to recharge so you can finish your day as strong as you started it. Making sure you eat lunch can be hard when you're at the office, but mindless snacking is (waaay) easier when you are at home. Avoid snacking throughout the day and set aside a specific time for a lunch break to replenish your body.

7. Open the curtains and crack a window

Being in the same space for 24 hours a day for several days on end can make any space begin to feel small. Opening the curtains and cracking a window to let outside elements like sunlight and fresh air into your home instantly makes any space feel bigger. Also, remember that moving your body is a necessity - a quick lap around the block (if safe) is good for your health and also subsides feelings of cabin fever.

As we all navigate these uncharted waters, I hope these tips bring you a sense of relief and help make your day-to-day life a little less stressful. Is there anything you’d add to this list? Let me know in the comments below!