How to Work From Home

Working from home can be an opportunity to change your lifestyle for the better but, unfortunately, it is easy to fall into the trap of unhealthy and unproductive habits. By identifying and avoiding these pitfalls, you can find a positive work/life balance.

It’s 5 O’Clock Nowhere

In theory, working from home should add hours to your day since you no longer have to commute. However, the reality is often the opposite. Many feel that since they are steps away from ‘the office’ at all times, they are burning the midnight oil more than ever before. Instead of giving in to it, try setting a specific time when you ‘close the office’. You might just find that many things that arise after hours can wait until the next day. So, when that email comes late in the evening, determine if it is something that really does need your attention, or if it can be tabled until the morning. 

PJ’s Are For Sleeping 

Do you find yourself blurring the lines between your day and night pj’s?  Having a morning routine, even if you don’t leave the house, can actually set you up for a more productive day. Resist the temptation to sleep in and head straight to the computer as soon as you rise. Instead, get up early enough to start your day with an energizing workout. Then, make sure to eat a nutritious breakfast and dress for home office success. You can keep your work wardrobe comfortable, as long as you make sure it's not what you wore to bed!  

The Kitchen Is  Always Open

Hours spent working right near the kitchen is a recipe for disaster. Practicing good eating habits while working at home will help avoid mindless grazing and  unhealthy foods. Plan your meals and snacks ahead of time and have lots of high protein, low sugar options (including fresh fruits and vegetables) ready to grab. When it comes to lunch, try to take an actual break away from your desk. A change of scenery while you eat helps to keep you fueled and energized while potentially even boosting your productivity. And, while on your lunch break, try to move around and get some fresh air to keep you feeling motivated.

Where’s My Desk?

When you can no longer see your desk beneath piles of paper, it's time to get organized!  Nothing derails a workday like a cluttered desk and, if your office is out in the open, you cannot hide the mess behind a closed door. Adding bookshelves and decorative baskets will keep the mess from getting out of control while letting you show your personal style. Have some fun accessorizing the office and think about making your space comfortable and appealing. Spend a few minutes at the end of each day putting everything back in its place, so the clutter monster will be kept at bay.  

It’s easy to let down your guard and fall into some bad habits when working from home. After all, who would even know? Well, you would! Maintaining healthy habits goes a long way to increasing your productivity and keeping you feeling great. And, it sets you up for work at home success!