Now that I work for myself, I could never go back into a job where I am working on somebody else’s hours, for a dream that isn’t my own. I’m getting to do exactly what I’ve always wanted, but getting it right can be a hard job in itself and I’ve had a few hiccups along the way!
Whether you’re in the design business, blogging business, food or fitness business – working from home or for yourself is an art, and one that I’m slowly getting to know very well. I want to share with you my Top 8 tips on working from home – one’s that I have learnt purely through making the mistake of not doing them! You can cut out the learning process and skip straight to efficiency and productivity, as well as peace of mind. Hope you find them helpful, feel free to share your best ‘working from home’ tips below x
1. Plan your week
A to-do-list is completely essential. When you’re your own boss, you have to set targets and quotas to be completed, otherwise jobs end up getting pushed day by day. If I didn’t take 30 minutes with my diary every Saturday night to work out what needed to be done and when, my week would be far from effective.
2. Wake up, shower, eat and repeat.
Mornings need to have a set routine. The amount of times I’ve been tempted to write an article in bed or reply to a dozen emails before I’ve eaten is a fair few! The problem is that the morning can quickly get away with you and you’ll be far more switched on and efficient after showering, eating and starting the day well. Aim to be at your workspace by 9am, after eating, working out, stretching or whatever else you want to incorporate into your morning routine.
3. Get changed ”“ but get comfy
One of my favourite things about working for myself is that I can wear anything I fancy and don’t have to leave an extra 30 minutes in the morning to choose an outfit! Pyjamas may be cosy but they don’t evoke a good work ethic for the day. Have a balance between getting changed and ready to start the day, and picking something soft and comfortable that you feel good in. A cashmere jumper and soft plimsolls do me perfectly! These lovely knits below are from Mint Velvet.
4. Have a dedicated workspace
When I first started working from home, my desk was my kitchen table, bed or sofa! Not only was it messy, but it didn’t give me a productive place to set my laptop up and get creative. You don’t have to have your own office if space is limited, but a simple desk and comfy chair does wonders for fruitful work!
5. Keep away from the fridge!
Eating and snacking has got to be one of the best, and most popular, forms of procrastination. Working from home is a real test of self-control and temptation in more ways than one. You don’t want to get caught out in the trap of snacking for the sake of snacking. It took me a while getting used to having all my favourite foods just three steps away from me but after setting ”˜break-times’ after the job at hand was finished, it became much easier, and healthier!
6. Set your hours
Although my hours can be quite sporadic with personal training and blogging, I never allow myself to switch off before 6pm. Don’t get me wrong, working for yourself is a dream when it comes to planning holiday days, seeing friends and Skyping the family because you have the flexibility. However, if you don’t put in the hours then chances are the business won’t be growing as quickly as it could be. We’ve given up the security of an office job to chase a dream, so make sure you do that dream justice!
7. Perfect your working environment.
Some love background music, some love the radio. I personally love a room with fresh flowers and beautiful smelling candles. It helps me get creative and relax into the working day. Find what suits you best, but be sure to create an atmosphere that you love and look forward to working in. The Hygge range from Mint Velvet are some of my favs.
8. Get out the house
Do I get cabin fever? Absolutely! You may have perfected every point above, but it can still be a tough gig working alone for 9-hours a day. I love a little gossip so that’s something that I’ve missed moving away from office employment. Even going into a café for the day and hearing chatter around is a great way to refresh the environment and mind. You also never know who you may meet so give yourself a day out of the office where you can splash out on a yummy lunch and buzzing environment.
Image Sources: Pinterest/Dollar Photo Club/Lean Living Girl
