Working from home provides me with many benefits, such as flexibility and comfort, but I know that it also requires a high level of self-discipline to remain effective. To maintain a clear separation between work and personal life and maximize my productivity, I have established a set of rules for myself.
A minimum 30-minute walk every Monday morning
Every Monday morning, I begin with a walk of at least 30 minutes. This helps me transition from the weekend to the workweek and get into the right mindset. The fresh air and movement ensure that I feel energized and focused for the rest of the day.
One-hour lunch break with a short walk
During my lunch break, I take an hour to relax and go for a short walk outside. This gives me the opportunity to get some fresh air and stay active. Additionally, my dogs need to be walked, which provides extra motivation to go outside.
Wearing professional clothing
Even though I work from home, I dress professionally as if I were going to the office. This helps me maintain a professional mindset and prevents me from becoming too relaxed. It boosts my productivity and ensures that I am ready for any video meetings.
Workday from 8 AM to 5 PM
I start my workday at 8 AM and finish at 5 PM. This provides a clear structure and helps me complete my tasks within a set timeframe. At the end of the workday, I shut down my laptop completely and close the door to my home office. This marks the end of my workday and helps me mentally disconnect.
Changing into evening wear
After finishing my workday, I change into comfortable evening wear, such as sweatpants and a simple t-shirt or an oversized sweater. This helps me relax and transition into my free time. Taking off my bra and shoes adds to the feeling of comfort and relaxation.
Maintaining a good posture to prevent back and neck pain
To prevent back and neck pain, I ensure that I maintain a proper posture while working. I have purchased a height-adjustable desk, allowing me to alternate between sitting and standing. This helps keep my body in motion and prevents prolonged strain on the same muscles.
Agreements with my employer
In addition to my personal rules, I also have work-from-home agreements with my employer. For example, I am responsible for having a well-functioning Wi-Fi connection and an ergonomically sound workspace. Furthermore, I must be reachable during standard office hours.
By adhering to these agreements with myself, I ensure that I remain productive while working from home and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Self-discipline is essential, as it helps me stay consistent and achieve my goals.
This is what works for me. Does anyone else have tips?
The Dutch Flame 