Remote work has changed people’s lives. We now have more time to do errands, visit friends, and hyperfocus on tasks, just to name a few advantages. Anything goes as long as you’re completing your work tasks, right?
Wrong.
Working from home comes with its own set of challenges.
All of a sudden, you’re dealing with your family who doesn’t understand the concept of working online, or you’re multitasking too much to get ahead that it inevitably does the opposite. Sound familiar?
Luckily, you’re not alone. In fact, research shows that about six-in-ten U.S. workers are still working from home if possible. Knowing that fact, many workers have likely gone through similar ups and downs while working remotely.
Here are some do’s and don’ts of remote work to avoid this distress – because you’re never alone in the world!
Set boundaries
It’s hard not to get overzealous with the free time cut after not commuting. You want to do the most, say “yes” to every task, and get everything done, regardless if it bleeds into your personal time. If this sounds like you, it’s a definite red flag. The bottom line is that you’re still one individual, and you need to limit your boundaries to ensure your mental health is in its best state for not only yourself and your children. Forbes says: “Boundaries lead to confidence, emotional stability, and reduced anxiety—because they give you a sense of control. Psychology research clearly shows that one of the fastest routes to depression is when you’re responsible for something you don’t have control over.” Set them up!
Create a schedule
This helps set healthy boundaries. Making a clear schedule that aligns with your dream life goals is optimal.
In planning your hourly schedule, make sure to add non-work-related activities, such as physical activity, hobbies with your kids, and time to cook and clean, to name a few. If you’re working from 9 to 5, make sure to use the hours before 9 a.m. and those after 5 p.m. to schedule moments for yourself. Does your kid have soccer practice at 6 p.m.? That gives you some time to read as a hobby while they do their thing. It’s all about making time for yourself and sticking to a schedule that allows it. It’s not all about work, y’all.
Don’t limit yourself to your house
This tip is for those who work solely from a laptop. Why limit yourself to only working from home? If you have the opportunity to work from a library or a coffee shop – why not take advantage of it? Sure, internet access limitations come to mind, but mobile hotspot options exist. Imagine working in front of a coffee shop near the ocean. It’s possible!
Don’t clutter your work area
You clean up after your children without thinking twice about it. Why avoid your personal clutter? Keeping your designated area clean is a way to stay on top of your work. If you find it cluttering up, it’s easier to tackle the mess rather than to wait for it to pile up into an unorganized disaster. Trust me, we know!