If you’re looking for some tips for working from home that will help you stay productive and not drive yourself crazy, well, you’ve come to the right place! Whether you’ve recently started working from home, or maybe you’re a stay-at-home mom or dad just trying to get some work done, working from home can be incredibly challenging. There are so many potential distractions, especially if you have young children.
If you have kids, especially kids under three or four, it’s going to be even harder for you. Those kids? They’re like another job – except 24/7 with no pay – and they can drive you crazy. But working from home can! So let’s not delay any longer. Let me help you declutter your mind by talking about ten tips for staying sane while working from home or remotely.
1. Get Into a Morning Routine ASAP
The beauty of leaving the house and going to work every single day is that you leave the house and go to work every single day. It’s routine, it’s automatic – it’s what you do. Unfortunately, when you start working from home, that routine disappears, and that’s a dangerous thing. Without a routine, you can have slow starts and long finishes.
When I got laid off, I thought, “Yes, freedom! I’m my own boss! I can do anything, anytime!” However, freedom without a routine can lead to procrastination, laziness, and unproductiveness. While you don’t have to set a clock every day, I suggest you still choose a morning routine. This means setting an alarm, waking up at the same time every day, taking a shower, and starting your day.
2. Find Your Spot
Find a place that becomes your regular work area. That way, when you sit down, you are mentally checking in. And when you leave that space, you can mentally check out. Creating this boundary is crucial for work-life balance.
3. Beware the Temptation to Work When You Shouldn’t
I needed to set boundaries. Working all the time — mentally and physically — can damage relationships and drain your energy. The following tips will help you set better boundaries.
4. Know What You’re Supposed to Be Doing
Time is precious, so don’t waste it. When you’re ready to work, make sure you’re working on what’s actually important. If you’re an entrepreneur, there are countless things you can do – but which ones will actually move the needle?
Create a running list of tasks and prioritize the ones that will really move your business forward. Busy work can feel productive, but real progress comes from tackling the uncomfortable tasks that push you forward.
5. Choose to Eat Well
Now that you’re at home, there are no office donuts, vending machines, or fast food lunches with co-workers. You have control over your food choices, and this is the perfect opportunity to eat healthy. Your body and mind will thank you.
6. Take Breaks
Breaks are essential. Get outside, move your body, and clear your mind. While deadlines may make you feel like you can’t take a break, you’ll be more productive if you do. For me, a quick Rocket League session or a few rounds of Super Smash Bros. help me reset.
7. Schedule All Parts of Your Day (But Stay Flexible)
Your calendar is your best friend.
“If it doesn’t get scheduled, it doesn’t get done.”
Schedule your work hours, breaks, and even family time to ensure balance. Just remember – be flexible! Obstacles will come, especially if you have children.
8. Control How You Intake the News
News can be a huge distraction, especially during a crisis. Instead of constantly checking for updates, designate a trusted friend or family member to alert you if something truly urgent happens. Otherwise, save checking the news for breaks or the end of the day.
9. Connect with People Face-to-Face
Working remotely can be isolating. When I first started, I missed office conversations and team events. Human connection is important! So try to have real conversations – whether it’s a Zoom call, FaceTime, or meeting in person if possible.
10. Communicate as Much as Possible
The most important thing you can do is communicate with the people around you. Share your schedule with your spouse, children, or roommates. If you set expectations early, they will know when you are in the mood for work and when they can have your full attention.
Over-communicating is better than under-communicating! And don’t forget to check in with your loved ones to see how you can help them too. A home where everyone understands and respects each other’s work time is a happier, more productive home.
