Welcome to my first post on Clearly Imperfect!
My first post is dedicated to all those who find themselves in a remote work situation and are looking for some guidance on how to make the most of it. Let's get this party started!
I am an introvert, so remote working is second nature to me. But that doesn't mean I just throw a computer on my kitchen table and go. There are a few things I do to keep my sanity.
Work Setup
You need a work setup that works for you and that you can escape from at the end of your workday. Here are some thoughts:
Separate Office: If you are lucky enough to have separate space in your house, dedicate a room to working. Set up a desk, a nice work chair, and whatever peripherals make your life better. When you are done working, pretend that room does not exist. Super nice separation, right?
Closet Office: Have a little extra closet space? Try adding some extra shelving from your local home store to make a desk in the closet. Just make sure you have enough space to move your elbows. When you are done for the day, close the door and you won't have to focus on it again until the next workday.
Hidden Desk: There are pieces of furniture on the market that have nicely hidden desks. This includes armoires, writing desks, and certain bookcases. If you have empty corner, these can make nice looking additions to a room as well as a great spot to hide your computer when you finish working.
Office Kit: No extra space, huh? Try the office kit instead. A lap desk or C-table with a small box or bag to carry a mouse and power cable can make a nice desk in a living room. Or use your kitchen table, or console table pushed up to the back of your couch with a kitchen chair for a makeshift desk. Just remember to put everything away when you are done!
Social Time
I don't need much socialization, but I recognize my friends and coworkers do. Without socialization people become overly critical of themselves or could think others are judging them. Rest assured, no one is judging you... but being alone doesn't help.
To kick this feeling to the curb, schedule regular social check-ins, via video if you are not in close proximity, with your work friends and colleagues. And make an effort to keep in touch with friends and family that are in close proximity. Get out of the house once in a while to reconnect with humanity. Getting the extra context will help you not be so critical of yourself.
WFH Buddy
Do you have your work from home buddy? I work at home with my husband and two dogs. My coworkers have spouses, kids, pets, and roommates. This really helps to combat loneliness. If you don't have someone in your house with you, see if there is a coffee shop or coworking space nearby that you can use. You don't have to talk with anyone, but being around others really helps. Just remember to work safely. Use a privacy screen, headset, and VPN to keep your work secure.
Have Fun!
This last piece is critical. We should never take ourselves too seriously. Don't forget to have fun. Watch anime, play a video game, karaoke in your pajamas, have a home concert with your favorite streaming service, binge that series you have been wanting to see. Do something that has absolutely nothing to do with work at home so you can reconnect with your space in a different context.
I hope you find this helpful!