In this series we’re going to delve deep into the factors that will help you create a very productive and very successful “work from home” environment and schedule. This applies to anyone wanting to transition to the work from home position, stay at home parents who are wanting to launch a business from home, and for the most part any of us who are being forced to amid this crazy Covid19 crisis.
Regardless of reasoning, it’s important to make sure it’s done right. And if successful you’ll never want to return to your office ever again. Yay!
Let’s jump in.
*Making the Decision
The decision to work from home is a big one. Of course in this time of uncertainty and apprehension a lot of us were regulated to in oder to keep safe, but the feeling of anxiety and possible excitement behind getting something up and running is still the same. And trust me, the decision on if you’ll want to return to your office job might be harder to make than ever.
Maybe you’ve always wanted to work from home but didn’t know if it would be feasible. Maybe you always wanted to start something aside from your job that would give you more freedom. Well, here’s your chance!
Once the decision is made a whole bunch of factors enter your mind.
Where will you work?
Do you even have enough space?
Do you have the right tech?
Do you know how to setup your tech?
Are other people around that will be too distracting?
Can you work knowing the snack cabinet is right there? (Yep, even this)
Etc.
The questions will become endless! And you do truly have to plan around it or your focus and attention will wander frequently. This is not a test. This is real. Tv and the snack cabinet are real culprits, and then of course theirs your phone and social media. But we’ll get more into that later.
*Define a Work Space
The first thing you’re going to want to do is a define a workspace. There are a couple things to keep in mind when doing this:
1. Is it in an area that is less frequented by family members?
I.e. the kitchen counter would be a TERRIBLE office space. You want to find a cozy nook that is somewhat isolated and not in the pathway of a lot of walking.
2. Are there enough outlets for all your plugs?
And how many outlets do you really need? This is essential for anyone working from home. Most “work from jobs” require us to be on a computer, phone, or more. So you’ll need a way to recharge or keep it connected while you chip away at hours of tasks and projects. You do not want your tech dying on you in the middle of a very important conference call, zoom class, or email.
The other thing to consider is whether or not you will need to connect an ethernet cable. Yes, I know this is so old school but think about. You’re setting up an office in a place that might not be where you usually hangout on your computer and the wifi might not be as stable. Enter Ethernet cable.
Of course if you’re internet is strong throughout your home or apartment you can completely ignore this jump into the past. Okay, let’s keep going.
3. How close are you to the kitchen and tv?
This is actually more important than you think. We may all think our willpower is awesome. But put yourself in close proximity to one or both of these things and you’ll find yourself being pulled away more than you like. You don’t even have to be hungry, but catch a glimpse of those chips, granola, etc. and you’re a goner. You’ll also find yourself packing on the pounds so let’s try and keep ourselves away as much as possible.
The other thing that will help with that is setting strict rules about TV. I actually haven’t needed to do this in my apartment yet but I do find that I very much enjoy keeping the TV off during business hours. The TV does not go on until after 5pm. This also helps with controlling your kids screen time too if you have them. I’m sure they have toys, they can go play with those while mommy and daddy work. It will take a little getting used to, but it will definitely help in the long run.
4. Is there enough sunlight?
Okay so this one might be optional to some people but to me it’s completely needed. I crave sunlight at all times of the day. As soon as I get up I want to open the shades, I sit in the sunlight if I find a sunny spot in the room, and I feel my energy is just higher, more easily maintained, and my mood is better with sunlight around.
Now I get, we all have to make due with the current situation and what we have. But it is something to take into account. Vitamin D deficiency is a real thing, they make supplements for it. So try and get it naturally if you can. The other great thing about being near or next to a window is fresh air. Try and find someplace with sunlight and fresh air. Trust me, you’ll be happy you did. Goodbye florescent lights, and hello sun!
5. What about decor?
The last thing I am going to say about setting up your work environment is that you are finally able to make it as appealing and cute as ever! You’re at home. You have all your chachkies. You have all the comforts that make your home cozy and comfortable and lovely.
Well you can finally make your work space the same and emote the same feeling. The wonderful thing about working from home, besides losing the commute hassle, is really designing a work space that is you, in all it’s glory! Now that you have all the tech and distraction items handled, why not make it as beautiful and as girly, or as manly as you want it? This is the time! This is what a lot of people love about working from home, that they’re office is inviting, inspiring, lighthearted, and more.
Take this opportunity to really create something you love! Go 100% and make it your own. The more time you dedicate to making it really feel like you, the harder it will be to ever head back into an office building again.
Are you doing it? Wonderful!! Take a weekend and make it spectacular! I’ll leave you with a few of my favorite office inspos down below. Also don’t forget to come back for Part 2: Creating your work from home schedule.
Also don’t forget to come back for Part 2: Creating your work from home schedule. As always join us in the comments section below and subscribe to the newsletter for updates and ongoing happenings at TylekTeaches.com. The subscription link is just on the right hand side of this post. See you there!
[…] If you missed the first post about creating your home office, you can find Part 1 here. […]