In an increasingly digital world, the work force is becoming more flexible. This means working remotely or working from home is more common than ever and with this comes challenges. Some people take their telecommuting to a co-working space, some post up in a coffee shop, and some manage just fine at home. Regardless of your preferred method, here’s some of our favorite tips to work from your apartment home.
Make a list of daily tasks.
When working from home, it’s important to stay on task and hold yourself accountable. The beauty of flexibility means you can make your own schedule, but keeping that schedule is important to stay productive and produce quality work. By making a list, you can help keep track of progress toward your goals.
Get dressed.
Although a perk of working from home is the chance to wear pajamas, try getting dressed every day. People say that when you look good, you feel good! This helps set boundaries and will subconsciously motivate you to get started on your day.
Set aside workspace.
Working from bed or a couch may be comfortable, but they aren’t as likely to be productive workspaces. Try designating a desk or table for your work in order to keep work vs. relaxation separate. If you don’t have room for an office in your apartment home, clearing your counter or using your kitchen table can work just as well.
Get out of your apartment.
Whether it’s working from a coffee shop for the day, or simply running an errand, plan to leave your apartment at least once during your WFH (work from home) day. Working elsewhere helps add a little peer pressure to not be “that guy” who takes up valuable space near an outlet in the coffee shop. Or, consider going to your local library for a free, quiet space to work. If you are running an errand or run out to get lunch, this will motivate you to set small goals to accomplish before and after the time you leave, adding little reminders to stay on task.
Set clear office hours.
Sticking to regular office hours even when you aren’t in the office can help hold you accountable for a healthy work-life balance. This way, you are online when co-workers are working, and you are available when needed. Plus, setting a time to log off each day will help keep work and your personal life separate, even when you bring work home.
If you have the flexibility to work from your apartment home, we hope you found these five tips helpful. The key is to set goals, stay motivated and find your balance!
