Things to Consider If You Find Yourself Working From Home

Stake Out Your Spot

If you normally work in an office setting and now find yourself working from home, you may be distracted by the “new” surroundings. Everything from noisy delivery trucks on the street to the adorable puppy in your lap can take your mind off work. You need to pick a spot in your home with the fewest distractions, and where all the essentials (like electrical outlets and your modem) are close by. Modern WiFi is a wonderful thing, but understand it can still be inconsistent in even the most tech-friendly neighborhoods.

Work First, Worry About Errands Later

Even when you’re working from a home office, it helps to maintain a schedule or set work hours. While everyone is different, I definitely need to answer emails, schedule interviews, return calls and write copy early in the day. When I try to run errands in the morning and tell myself I’ll get work done in the afternoon, I end up doing dishes, watering plants, buying gifts online or finding some other not-so-legitimate excuse to avoid writing. Try to get work done early, before a family member or friend needs a favor or you start turning your attention to the grocery list.Think About Your Back, Feet and Shoulders

When I work on big projects and spend long hours in front of the laptop writing copy during a condensed period of time, my body tightens up. Pick a back-friendly, ergonomic chair if at all possible. I always make time for exercise (don’t forget to stretch!) and prefer to stand while I type.

Make Friends With Your Postal Worker or Delivery Person

Take the time to let your local postal worker or delivery person in your neighborhood know you’re now working from home if your work involves a lot of envelopes and packages. While all towns are different, I have found it helps when my local delivery person knows I’m working at home and sending and receiving envelopes and packages on a regular basis. I make a point to say hi and talk with my local drivers, but something as simple as leaving a note on your door explaining your situation often works.

Pump the Brakes With Social Media

Social media can be absolute poison if you don’t limit yourself. It’s definitely good to stay on top of the news during these uneasy times, but if you allow yourself to be sucked into endless posts, you might look up at the clock and discover you lost three or four hours of your day.

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