In this changing world it seems like telecommuting may be here to stay for quite some time. While there are many benefits to working remotely, it can be so hard to stay motivated when working from the comfort of your home, especially when it is something you’ve never done before. We know motivation and self-discipline can be quite hard so here are a few tips to help with your work-life-home balance.
Keep your morning routine the same
Even though your office is now just a few steps away from your bed and it may be hard not to sleep in, try and keep the same morning routine you had before we moved our office home. If you had to wake up a few hours early to get ready and commute why not use that time for yourself instead? Take time to enjoy your coffee, maybe sit outside on your porch or balcony or take a little morning walk around the block to clear your head. The more time spent preparing yourself for the day will not only bring some normality into your new work life, but will also help you set intentions for the day. Maybe even incorporate from time to meditate? Read our previous article on “The Benefits of a Mindfulness Practice for a Busy Professional”.
Create a regular work routine
A more flexible work schedule may mean you become unmotivated while working from home. You may find yourself more focused on a household project than your actual work and find yourself not checking your computer as often because “you can always do it later”. To help keep yourself motivated, create daily checklists or to-do lists, outlining each day and the most important work tasks that need to get done. As well, remember to schedule regular breaks. Just because you are working at home doesn’t mean you don’t deserve a little break. Find the times you know you will be more productive and schedule your larger tasks around them. That way you can feel more accomplished throughout the day.
Use a productivity software
If those handwritten to-do lists aren’t doing it for you, use a productivity software like Slack or Asana. Our team at Modern Concierge uses both systems to organize projects and communicate with other coworkers on collaborative projects.
Slack – A more refined version of messenger chat where you can create dedicated channels for specific projects. You can share files and documents, and start threads on specific questions to start side conversations. Feel free to check out some of the features this communications app.
Asana – Similar to Microsoft Project but a bit more user friendly on a more modern looking platform. Asana is a take management software where you can track projects, deadlines, and milestones. You can assign certain team members to tasks with due dates. Tasks can be given sub tasks so you don’t miss out on any of the small details of projects. Asana also offers a free trial period to start.
Set boundaries for yourself and your housemates
It can be really easy to get distracted by your partner, roommate, or kids while trying to work from home. Whether they are looking for help with homework, housework, cooking or just need some attention they can be awfully distracting while you are trying to get work done. To combat this, set aside some regular boundaries for when you need quiet time and communicate that to them. Be sure to let them know when you will absolutely need a “closed door” policy during the day so they know not to interrupt you. Perhaps create a white board or calendar outside your home office that you update each day for them to see. That way they will know exactly when they should respect your needed space. It is also recommended you set aside some time where your partner, roommate or kids can have your full attention too whether it’s for 5 minutes or 1 hour.
Get dressed for work
While it may seem so easy to wear lounge clothes while you work all day, we find it can throw of your productivity, confidence, and motivation. Now, we aren’t saying you need to put on a full suit blazer, and dress but you definitely need to throw your sweatpants aside. Try dressing as if you were going to go on a coffee date with a friend you haven’t seen in a while and informally “dress to impress”. So put on your favourite jeans, a nice top, and get to work!
Modern Concierge is your dedicated concierge team that handles all of your lifestyle needs. From offering home concierge services to being a luxury travel agency and event company in Toronto, we give you access to the best lifestyle management available. If you’re ready to make life easier, contact us today!
