7 Ways to Adjust to Working from Home

Working from home may feel beneficial yet unfamiliar—especially if you’ve never done it before. Here are ways to adjust.

woman at a desk with her dog adjusting to working from home, how to

To some, working at home sounds like an absolute dream come true. And it can be so convenient during certain circumstances. But while it sounds like bliss, there are some potential distractions to your work ethic when you’re working from home, especially if you’ve never done so before.

With that in mind, here are a few tips to perform well while working from home:

1. Set up a comfortable workspace

As tempting as working on the couch sounds, it’s best to find a spot where you know you will be productive and focused—not to mention in a place where you can do your posture a favor. And if you’re considering working some place where you sleep (like your bed or the couch), think again and choose somewhere more appropriate. Using a desk or a table is a good start.

2. Dress for success

Research shows that dressing similar to how you normally would for work in the office can help normalize your work from home. An option to stay somewhat comfortable would be to wear a dressier shirt or top and comfy pants for a video meeting. At a minimum, changing out of your pajamas and doing your hair can help you feel pulled together, confident, and productive.

3. Limit distractions

Let’s admit it: We all take breaks during the workday in some way or another. But at home, you’re now surrounded by the temptation to talk to family, watch TV, and finish your chores. To combat this, set boundaries for yourself. Consider taking your laptop to your backyard table or using an app to block your social media during working hours. Make a list of your top distractors and find creative ways to avoid them.

Related: How to Keep Kids Entertained When Stuck Indoors

4. Stick to a schedule

Sometimes working from home puts you at risk for overworking. It’s easy to lose track of time and schedule conference calls or meetings when you normally wouldn’t. But just because you’re at home doesn’t mean your normal designated working hours have changed. Stick to the schedule you’re used to and step away from your laptop when the workday ends. You’ll thank yourself later.

5. Take breaks

To avoid sitting in one spot for eight hours straight, make sure you schedule breaks for yourself at home (but not too many!). You can go for a bike ride, call your best friend, or even whip up a tasty snack. Give your brain the boost it needs throughout the day.

6. Connect with others

Even though you’re working, it’s crucial to connect with others. Constant isolation never did anyone’s emotional health a favor. Suggest having video calls with your coworkers or chat virtually with friend during your lunch break. Regular interaction can help you get out of your head for a bit and rejuvenate you to finish out the workday.

7. Unwind at the end of the day

It’s important to give yourself time to transition from working back to home life, even if it’s just for a few minutes to relax before the reality of dishes, laundry, and figuring out what to make for dinner hits. To unwind, practice meditation, take a bubble bath, jam out to your favorite tunes, or kick back with a good book—do whatever makes you feel at ease until the next workday comes.

How do you stay productive while working from home? Tell us on Facebook—we’d love to hear from you.

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