10 Tips for Working From Home

I’ve always been a big fan of the idea of working from home… I definitely think the whole 9-5 chained-to-a-desk office dynamic is very outdated and it seems like now, as it’s over two years since the new way of working began, more and more companies are allowing us to work flexibly.

I feel like a lot of time in the office is wasted catching up with colleagues and, especially if you work in an open-plan office, it can be hard to focus and concentrate at times. Working from home is like the polar opposite of this for me (although I know this definitely isn’t the case for everyone) – I have very few distractions other than the occasional doorbell ring and the only colleague I have to talk to is my dog! It can get a bit lonely at times but I’m an introvert at heart anyway so thankfully I don’t find it too hard.

I thought I’d pull together a list of tips for working from home, for anyone struggling to adapt to this way of working, or simply if you’re looking for a few tips on keeping motivated.

Have a dedicated workspace

This one seems obvious, but I’m really surprised at, even over two years on, how many people are still working from their dining tables and sofas. Obviously not everyone has the luxury of their own office space but if you do, or if you can think of innovative ways to create a separate space for work, I’d totally recommend it. It could be as simple as a fold-out desk which you tidy away at the end of the day, or a section of your bedroom which is basically the ‘work zone’. It will make such a difference to your productivity and also your wellbeing – nobody wants to feel like they live at work.

I’d recommend making your office space a place you like being in – my office is full of bright, mood-boosting art prints, my favourite homeware pieces and cute Instax prints, so I enjoy working in it. Also, make sure you clean and tidy your desk every night when you finish work – there’s nothing worse than waking up to a messy desk! Having a comfy desk chair is of paramount importance too. You spend hours and hours of your day sitting at your desk, so save your back and invest in a chair with decent support.

Take regular breaks

When you’re not surrounded by the hubbub of an office, and it’s simply you and your four walls, it can be easy to fall into the trap of working constantly, eating your lunch at your desk and never giving yourself a proper break. Especially as you’re living where you’re working, it can feel a bit daft taking yourself off for a break every now and again. However, it is SO important. Taking regular breaks will ensure you’re productive, give your eyes (and mind) a break from a screen and is just generally really important for your wellbeing.

Get dressed

I know when we were first sent home to work, my immediate thought went to ‘Oh my God I can work in my pyjamas! It’s a dream come true!’ However, now I realise that ‘PJs all day’ really isn’t the way to go. On the few days I have tried working in pyjamas it simply hasn’t gone well. I find I can’t get in the right headspace and trying to find motivation when you’re wearing clothes designed specifically for sleeping really isn’t easy! So, I find getting dressed and, particularly on the days I have Teams meetings, putting makeup on really helps get me into the mindset for the working day and allows me to be productive. I’d definitely recommend this if you’re struggling to get into the ‘I’m a work’ headspace!

Keep to a schedule

Keeping a schedule and setting boundaries is something I’ve found invaluable since working from home. It’s really important to stick to a set start time, lunch time and finish time, as otherwise time can run away from you and before you know it, it’s 8pm and you’re still staring at spreadsheets. It’s also worth letting your family members/friends know this is how you’ll be working, so they’ll know when you’re more than likely unavailable.

Write lists

Lists are an absolutely life-saver for me, in all aspects of my life. I have a terrible memory and writing things down is usually the only thing that keeps me somewhat organised. It also works as a brilliant motivational tool – honestly, is there anything better than ticking something off your to-do list? I don’t think so! I find lists keep me focused on the task at hand and stop me from procrastinating.

Get outside

While it can be difficult during the winter months, getting outside as and when you can is so important when working from home. Going for a walk at lunchtime can do wonders to break up your day, or even having your morning/afternoon coffee break outside can make all the difference. It’s easy to feel sluggish and stagnant when you’re in the house all day, so getting out and about and moving around is really important.

Speak to people (other than your colleagues!)

I’ve definitely fallen into the trap of literally not speaking to anyone for 7+ hours when working from home, and I really don’t advise it! Even if you spend the day stuck in Zoom meetings, it’s so important to step away from work and speak to your family/friends/loved ones. I make sure I video call my parents at least once a week and even a call to your other half at lunch time can make all the difference. It’s so important for your mental health to check in with loved ones, particularly if you live alone.

Don’t work from your bed

I’ll admit, I have done this on a few occasions and I totally understand if you’re feeling run-down or a bit out of sorts, working from bed can be exactly what you need. But, other than those very rare occasions, I’d advise you don’t do it. You can fall into a trap of feeling sluggish and unmotivated, whereas if you’re sitting at your desk you definitely feel more productive and ready for the day.

Set boundaries

Setting boundaries is SO important when you’re working from home. And this goes for all things, really. Whether it’s telling your best mate they can’t pop round for a coffee every morning because while you are at home, it doesn’t mean you’re not working. Or, it could be forcing yourself away from your laptop when the clock turns 5pm, despite the fact you didn’t get as much work done as you’d like to today. Keep your work life and your home life separate, so that the lines between them don’t begin to blur.

Make the most of the benefits

Working from home is such an amazing opportunity, so it’s so important to make the most of the benefits. Whether that’s treating yourself to something with the money you’re saving by not commuting, or going for a run on your lunch break just because you can. The time saved by not commuting is probably my favourite thing about working from home – it means I have more time to spend with my partner and my dog, and more time to do the things I enjoy, like reading and blogging. Definitely make sure you make the most of the benefits of working from home!

Are you still working from home over two years on? I’d love to hear if people are returning to the office or sticking to the WFH lifestyle!