I have always loved the idea of working from home. I imagined how great it would be to work in your pyjamas if you wanted to, and just generally make the best of being in your home environment to do your work. Now that I do work from home, I enjoy it very much but have found that there can be headaches to working at home. Here are are a few of the things I have learnt that have helped me to enjoy working from home and be effective:
Create A Schedule
Like many people, I imagined working from home could mean getting up whenever I wanted to and working whenever suited me. The flexibility is great when it is needed but the reality is that a schedule can help you to get your work done and keep boundaries around your work and home life.
Boundaries are important when working from home, in getting your work done and also ensuring your work life doesn’t leak into your personal life. It might be that the people in your life may think you are always available to drop in on or look after their kids as needed unless you set clear parameters. If you can create a work space or office in your home it allows you to set a physical boundary and also enables you to close the door at the end of your work day.
Eliminate Distractions
There are usually more distractions when working from home compared to an office. Minimising and eliminating distractions as much as possible will help you to create a professional environment in which to work.
Keep A To Do List
To do lists can be really helpful in keeping on track with what needs to be done. Having two or three things (important) to do each day can help you move forward with whatever you are working on and keep a track of your progress.
Be Professional
When working from home it can be easy to forget you’re working, especially if you are really enjoying what you are doing. Ensuring you always answer your phone in a professional manner is a great habit to get into so that you are never caught short!
Network
I have found that creating a part of the day for networking online can enhance my effectiveness (as long as I am strict with the time I dedicate to this and don’t spend all day doing it)! Working at home can be lonely so finding a social outlet can help you feel better and consequently make you more effective as well as giving you more ideas and creativity with which to approach your work.
Bio: Jen Smith is a Life Coach, Mentor & Writer. She has tried many career paths herself and now helps people achieve their goals and dreams.
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