With the onset of the Pandemic, many have found themselves working from home. Where this is not new to me, I know it is to a lot of you! I’ve worked from a home office since 2001, so I know the challenges, AND the rewards that it can present. Here are some tips to make the most of your workday:
- Continue to keep up a workday “routine.” Set your alarm to wake up and start work at the same time every day. Try to exercise daily and eat meals at regular scheduled times.
- Set a time to STOP working each day…just as you would if you were working outside the home. Have a “to do list” for each day, week and month.
- Save housework and “extra” activities that don’t pertain to your job for after working hours.
- Take small breaks throughout the day to get up and stretch, walk around and clear your head.
- Try to avoid jumping back on a “screen” after working all day. Read, cook, go for a walk, or re-group with your family at the end of each day vs. scrolling Facebook from your phone or sitting in front of the tv all night.
- Stick to the same bedtime each night.
- Set up a designated area in your home for your office workspace.
- Make sure your “office” has good lighting. A window is a huge plus!
- Check with your internet provider to make sure that you have adequate service for your work needs.
- Get a good, comfortable office chair!
- Invest in a new computer and double monitors if necessary. Also, make sure that you have a great printer and scanner.
Your kid’s workspace is just as important as your workspace as well! Be sure to separate your office from them and try to provide a separate workspace for each child. I know this can be difficult, but even having 2 separate desks or counter in the same room is better than having to share. Avoid setting up their workspaces in their bedrooms too if you can help it. Just as adults need to separate their work from their home life, kids need to do the same with their school work and their home life…specifically their bedrooms; which is where most pre-teens and teens tend to hang out when they are at home.
By working together, everyone can make this “new normal” a better situation! Who knows, you may decide to make it permanent if that is an option for you? I know I personally LOVE working from home and couldn’t imagine having to commute to an office every day, but I’ve learned from experience, that it takes some discipline to make it a success. Hope my tips will help you as well!
On a real estate related note, if you’re looking to buy or sell during this time, you obviously know how important a home workspace can be for you and your family. Let us at Castle Hills Real Estate find the best option for you! If you’re selling, with our staging we can help showcase an office or school space that will help attract buyers who are facing this situation as well. Call us today at 214-449-1022!
