The Epitome Of Working From Home.

Based on our recent Q&A segment on Instagram, there were numerous questions centered around "Working from Home." 

Using your living space as your workspace is quite a trial. Talk about your work-life balance. Honestly, working from home is arduous. Not to mention to the background noise, the temptation from your television, the desire to work on your bed (this is a dangerous, dangerous game, do not do it). It is even harder when you are accustomed to going to an actual office. Being a young entrepreneur, my office is my bedroom. As humans, we can acclimatize to our surroundings, with a little incentive of course. Here's some tips for working from home. 

 

•    Change your space.

I cannot function in my room all day, sometimes I shuffle over to the living room, the dining table, sometimes I sit in my hammock and respond to emails. Changing my scenery now and then succors to my productivity. Everyone is different, some people have the ambition to just finish their work in one go, but if you're like me... it takes about three hours to gravitate attention towards my work. 

 

•    Wake up when YOU are ready to work.

In my line of work, I do a lot of all-nighters. I go above and beyond for my clients, ensuring that they have their content as soon as possible. As an entrepreneur, I work every day of the week. It takes a toll on you sometimes and I’ve learned that you cannot function properly if you’re tired or sleepy. Typically, I commence work at 9:00 AM, sometimes at 10:00 AM. Some mornings I wake up and I realize that I’m actually forcing myself to get out of bed but then I just think to myself, “I’m not going to get anything done if I’m tired.” Then, I pull my blanket and then sleep for another hour or so. My perspective is “as long as I get the job done.” Time doesn’t matter, it’s going to pass us by anyways, the imperative thing is how you use your time. 

 

•    Give yourself a deadline.

Even if you already have a deadline, give yourself an earlier one. Try getting a planner and jot down what you need to accomplish for the day. In business terms, set your short term goals. It may sound overrated, but it works. If you are not the pen and paper type of planner, set the reminders on your phone, use your resources to its full potential. Prioritizing your tasks is key. Once you set your priorities straight, you'll be able to comfortably meet those deadlines. 

 

•    Set up a functional workspace.

Create a replica of what a home office should embody. Recreate your desk area. Go on Pinterest, get some ideas, find one that speaks to you, use it as inspo, and create your unique space. By creating your own space with a design that appeals to you, you’ll be motivated to sit down and get to work. 

•    Set  the mood.

Get an air purifier, drop in some essential oil and let it calm you down to get into work mode. To me, having a clean workspace boosts my productivity, even though it gets a bit messy with all the papers and envelopes, etc. At the beginning of every workday, I tidy up and disinfect my workspace. Call it OCD if you must, but keeping your environment clean will reduce distractions. 

 

Drown out your background noise with some relaxing music. I listen to ocean waves and spa music most times to help me with my concentration but, white noise helps as well. YouTube search sounds to help relax you and concentrate on your tasks. Find the sounds that appeal to you and help eradicate your anxiety or fatigue. Find videos or podcasts on empowerment and motivation and listen to them while working. They will help you change your pace and up your game. 

 

•    Nature heals.

A desk plant is always a good idea. Believe it or not, some plants stimulate your senses and boost concentration. I am no plant expert, and I do not have a green thumb. However, I tried the plant thing, and I can attest to it. Let nature heal you and eradicate the negative energy floating around. Plants you can seek to invest in include: Sansevieria, Spider Plant, Dracaena Marginata, Mini Bamboos, etc. (There is so much more, but as I said, I am no plant expert). 

 

•    Surveillance to excellence.

Do a time-lapse of yourself working. You will feel pressured to work knowing you're under "surveillance." 

•    Have a break- have a KitKat.

Breaks are important. It does not matter what occupation you are in or where you are working, BREAKS ARE IMPORTANT. It is natural for our bodies to get tired. Breaks help us recharge and refuel. Go for a walk, have a light snack, stretch, take a power nap, or even close your eyes and meditate a bit. Do some breathing exercises to help get your oxygen flowing. Be kind to yourself. Working without breaks will lead to anxiety, stress, and even “writer’s” block.

The bottom line...working from home is hard. But as a girl boss, regardless if it's hard or not, congratulate yourself because you're doing the damned thing. I'm proud of you, you should be proud of yourself too. Thank you for reading!