Since March 2020, the business world has changed. Let’s be honest, the WORLD has changed, but it hasn’t stopped business. Thankfully, we live in a time where technology rules the business world and we can work from the comfort of our homes.
I have worked remotely off and on for 15 years. I love it. No commuting, work in comfy clothes, office mates are my kitties, full kitchen of my favorite things to eat; but family is distracting and home life can pull you away from the work that needs to be done. Remote work isn’t for every situation. Many industries or services need to be in the workplace, but even in those industries, there is work that can happen remotely and positions that can function and thrive working outside the workplace.
I am lucky. My work focuses on the work to be done not on a time clock. I can flex my work time whenever I wish depending on the tasks to be done. However, if I don’t take steps to control my work-life balance, work can quickly take over and leave little space for life. Over the years I have established some steps to ensure my life is balanced. These steps work for me in my situation and can be adapted to most other remote work needs.
Create a Schedule: Blending work and home is nice but one can quickly take over the other. Setting a schedule to helps bring balance. Share your schedule with your family is a wonderful communication step in your new “office”. Make sure your schedule includes family time and personal care time as well as work.
Be Flexible: Yes yoga is a good choice for personal care, but what I mean is while you have a schedule, life will affect it. Allow for adjustments. Kids need a bit of extra time, shift your schedule later in the day. Need a break, take a break. You will need to make up for it later.
Set your goals: Daily “to do” list can be a great way to make the most of your time. Breaking down tasks or responsibilities. If it helps add work and personal. I find I add things to both sections of my list throughout the day so I don’t forget them. This list will get long so break it up, set your priorities, and honor them. Allow them to shift if needed. Share them with your supervisor if you feel overwhelmed or need help in identifying priorities.
Track your work: This might be a requirement of your job for billing purposes and to show how you are handling your responsibilities. It is also an excellent way to show yourself what you are accomplishing and where you need to shift focus. Since you have a “to-do” list, it will be easy to check off accomplishments. I find that I will add things to my list just so I can check them off.
Move around: This is a big personal care note. Once an hour, get out of your chair and walk around for a few minutes. The nice thing is since you are at home, you could say hi to your family, take the dog outside, or get a snack. Movement helps your body and mind. Getting away from your workspace is a chance to reset and renew your energy. You can make calls or think out a project, email, article as you move around.
These are just a few things to consider. How have you had to adapt to remote working?