How to Successfully Work from Home (and enjoy it!)
As a business owner and entrepreneur, I have enjoyed the many benefits of working from my home office for over twenty years. Here are some key benefits to working from home and how to set up your home office for success.
The benefits of working from home are substantial.
No daily commute! – How much time do you spend commuting to and from work? What could you do with this time instead of sitting in your car or using public transportation? How much will you save in gas and maintenance costs for your vehicle?
Better efficiency – Studies indicate those who work from home are more efficient and can get work done in less time.
Reduced distractions and interruptions – Working from home eliminates the “drop-in” interruptions usually experienced in an office environment allowing for better concentration and reduced time to complete tasks and projects.
Multi- task household chores – One of the benefits I enjoy most about working from home is the ability to get things done around the house in between work tasks. Getting ready for a conference call? Throw a load of laundry in before the call, load the dishwasher or make the bed.
Free weekends – Most who work a traditional Monday – Friday schedule usually devote at least one day of their weekend to catching up on errands. When you work from home, you have more flexibility with your schedule and can run errands during the week freeing your weekends for social activities and family.
Now that you know the benefits of working from home, it’s time to set up your home office for success.
Establish a regular schedule and routine – Get up at the same time, end the workday at the same time, take breaks as you normally would.
Set ground rules with your family – Help your family understand when you are working and that you should not be interrupted except in emergencies.
Get out of the house – During the day, take a walk, pick your children up from school, prep dinner, run errands, practice self -care by going to the gym or a class.
Dedicated workspace – Ideally, the workspace should be in a separate room but if that is not possible, designate a place in a low traffic area of your home.
Socialize – Keep your business and personal relationships going, schedule lunches and happy hours, stay in touch virtually through social media, video chat and conference calls.
Actively participate – Instead of pressing the mute button once you get on a conference call and work on something else (I’m guilty, we all do it!), actively engage in the conversation as if you are sitting across from your colleagues.
Stay positive – Easier said than done sometimes but staying positive is key to maintaining relationships and keeping your career on track.
Mary Beth Hartleb is founder and CEO of Prism HR – Global Management Group, LLC and the Live Well-Work Well coaching, mentoring and wellness program.