Work from home jobs may seem like a dream come true but be careful what you wish for.
**Disclaimer** The businesses or resources mentioned are not affiliated with Savvy Cali Girl and we have not received any compensation. They are simply helpful resources our Savvy Cali Girl contributors have deemed worthy of a shout out.
Why Work At Home?
Getting up early and out the door to a job you may or may not love does not sound appealing on the surface. On the other hand, having a job where you are able to work from home carries its own appeal.
While working in pajamas with your pup (or furry feline) next to you certainly seems stress free, the reality is far from glamorous. For some it may even detrimental to your physical and mental health. I am an introvert and a seasoned work from home professional and even I still struggle at times.
But how could that possibly true? No stop and go traffic, no brown bag lunches (some of which are stolen from the lunch area), no boss passing by your desk every five minutes or a hundred other annoyances.
You know what they say about the grass being greener? It’s actually true.
Before you commit to telecommuting or starting up a stay-at-home business, just give this post a good read. I don’t want to deter you but only enlighten. Hopefully I can help you transition and enjoy the experience. Don’t be derailed by the unexpected challenges!
The Reality of A Work From Home Lifestyle
Challenges Exist, Even For Introverts
Over the years, I’ve learned to have realistic expectations about this work from home lifestyle. People are surprised by the realities of living a physically solo life. This choice was a natural one for me, as a natural born introvert. Still, it was quite an adjustment, even for me. I wish I had home advice before the journey began, probably would have been far fewer bumps in the road!
Nowadays, there are a lot resources. People writing about their experiences on blogs, lamenting on social media and propagating unrealistic narratives. It runs the whole span from doom and gloom to champagne dreams.
A Few Stats on Working From Home
So what is the truth of the matter? It lies in the middle with exceptions at either end of the spectrum. Pamela Bump gets into specifics about remote work and accompanying statistics with her post on HubSpot, 40 Remote Work Stats to Know in 2020. You’ll find a ton of stats in her post.
What are the biggest pitfalls and takeaways to be aware of?
– More than half feel disconnected from in-office employees
– loneliness and unplugging after work is their biggest challenge
– they work longer hours than on-site
I have found that all of the above are absolutely true. Being an introvert and dedicated to my work and self-disciplined, I originally thought those challenges wouldn’t be a problem. I was wrong and realized I may only be a part-time introvert. I missed my team’s faces and informal feedback on projects or strategy.
Just Like In Kindergarten, We All Want A Gold Star
Sadly, some of the best moments or stellar success were experienced at an empty desk or an airport lounge. I often received awards via email with a picture of a plaque or crystal trophy or bonus check. Humans need high fives and pats on the back.
Figure out how to be your own cheerleader if you are working from home. It took me a long time to develop this skill. Even to this day, my family looks at me like I’m an alien if I go on about something I accomplished that day. They don’t “get” what the challenge was and why I am so ecstatic. Being part of a team in your field is SUPER helpful. I would develop a private peer group, network with others in your industry or join specific groups on Facebook.
Five Things To Consider Before You Actually Commit To A Work At Home Lifestyle
1. Multitasking Does not Work
For years, multitasking was considered an asset and a mighty one at that but I can tell you that only works in high adrenaline or fast-paced situations. It’s not sustainable. Learning to focus on a task by developing a sort of tunnel vision is actually far more productive (and satisfying) than juggling it all at once and one of the best pieces of home advice I could share.
2. Create An Office To Work From Home
Create Your Office But Expect To Constantly Adapt If You Work From Home
To clarify, an office could be just about anything, anywhere, in any setting. I have been lucky over the years, to have space set aside for an actual office with a door. I have also been bombarded when forced to give up that space to accommodate family over the years.
Why mention this? I have had to adapt repeatedly. You may have a great situation one moment and the next you’re cramped into a corner of the kitchen. Similarly, you WILL likely have to adjust again and again.
During 2020, We All Adjusted
For me, I was comfortable being home alone for long periods of time and had balanced my social life as an introvert quite well. Life changed A LOT in 2020 and it took me a few weeks to figure it all out.
I lost my office to my grown son who lost his job. My daughter no longer headed off to the high school and her after school athletics all day. My husband is a coach and was now home everyday at 3:00 instead of heading home after practice at 6:30. Wow!
I thought my computer in the dining room, away from everyone was enough. As it turns out, every time someone walked by, they had a question or worse had conversations with each other directly behind my chair.
What was the solution? For me ear buds and music were my savior! The ear buds gave a signal to everyone that I was “working” and maybe I could use some space. I also ceased to focus on them while plugged in, instead jamming out to Bruno Mars.
Now, while my computer was still in full view, I created a virtual office even if it was essentially invisible. If that doesn’t work, you’ll have to carve out a more private area.
3. Be Mindful
When You Work From Home, Step Away!
Okay, you may be wondering how the day actually looks from moment to moment. For every single one of us, it will be different but a word of caution to those of us plopped in front of a computer, step away!
So, for example, every 30 minutes, I get up from my desk to refill my water glass, step outside to breathe fresh air or get a little sun on my face. It can be as simple as checking the mail, taking a short walk around the block, etc..
So, whatever it is that you can do for five or ten minutes, do it! Your eyes, your back, your knees WILL thank you, especially if you’re working on a computer for many years.
Ergonomics Still Apply At Home
The other consideration, along the lines of working from home on a computer is ergonomics. I was fortunate enough to have an ergonomics specialist help me at our corporate headquarters where I had another office space. That specialist helped me avoid so many issues that were developing as a result of working on a laptop.
As it turns out, the placement of a computer, your posture, the placement of your hands and arms and other factors are incredibly important. They are a critical determination for avoiding carpal tunnel, the development of headaches, even repetitive back pain.
FYI … my biggest posture tip! I am quite short so a footstool has long been a staple no matter where my desk may reside. I even spend portions of my week standing instead of sitting at my desk! Whatever challenges you may have, address them sooner rather than later.
If you’d like to know the ins and outs of ergonomics at your desk, this article and the accompanying infographic are great! Sit Up Straight! 23 Tips For Workplace Ergonomics from Fresh Consulting.
3. Be Productive, Not Just Busy
Make A List To Work From Home Effectively
Well, you may have guessed that I am a fan of lists. Why? I am easily distracted so lists keep me on task even if I stray now and then. If want to hit me with your objections, go for it. I used to think I could remember everything until it got be all too much.
So, do you have trouble making a single list? Did you run out of room because the list got too long? Did you give up? That’s completely normal and exactly what I did in the beginning. There is an art to those lists! I learned how to be productive instead of just being endlessly busy with a method that might help you too.
Create A List With The Tasks For The Day
I create one source with the most important items on it. I usually make use of a single piece of blank paper for those computer-related tasks.
For me, it includes the blog tasks for the day, paying a bill or reading up on a subject. It’s really only the items I need to do in front of that computer screen.
Next, I add the other daily tasks away from my desk that really matter, usually just off to the right. It could be dishes, a grocery trip, laundry or any one of a hundred other things.
By the way, I also include things like my ten minute meditation on the patio or walking the dog. Whatever the daily tasks are for you, make sure it is not the “project” list.
The flip side of that blank sheet is for larger scope items or things that take a longer time to complete. I will typically include an ongoing project like research for a new destination on the blog, planning a celebration like a birthday or anniversary, even organizing a particular cabinet.
I cross through everything as I accomplish them. It just feels good to have evidence for myself that I got stuff handled. Those are my version of a gold star. Anything leftover at the end of a week either wasn’t critical or fell prey to something unexpectedly more important. That’s okay, just make progress.
Week Long Projects
I scan through projects everyday to see which ones I have the energy and attitude to tackle. Since every day is different, it’s helpful to cut yourself some slack.
For example, one week allergies wreaked havoc with my sinuses so the headaches were the consequence for a few days. I just couldn’t be on the computer for long stretches. What did I do? I organized a few cabinets that had been on that project sheet for a couple weeks. I also stepped away from the social media on my iPhone and limited time writing for the blog.
You Have To Give Yourself a High-Five When You Work From HOme
How do you feel accomplished without a manager to hand the work into? If you’re reliant on instant feedback and intend to work from home, make sure you find a way to give yourself some credit or a high-five.
As I mentioned, I cross through everything as I accomplish each task. Those slashes are my high fives. I also have a few friends that “get” what I do so seeing them regularly helps a lot more than you would imagine.
When our team discussed new years resolutions, we opted instead for a theme word. Yep, you guessed it! We chose progress as a way to measure our success in both the short and long term. You can read more on that approach with, Why You Should Ditch The New Years Resolution in 2020.
4. Work From Home But Find Balance
Which Part of the Day Is Most Productive For You?
You’ve absolutely got to start your day in the most positive way possible, right? Consequently, structure your day in a way that works best for you.
Personally, I despise dishes so I refuse to clean up the kitchen until after lunch. Instead, I enjoy a treat of a strong mug of coffee and a small breakfast. Yes, I remain in the jammies for this part of my day.
Why the slow start? It’s part of the “treat” of the day that I allow myself to enjoy something while still comfy. There’s plenty of time for make-up or dishes or that time-consuming research project after 9:00 am.
I do recognize that many are morning people. In fact, one of contributors, gets more done before I even change my clothes. While I sometimes envious, I know I am utterly incapable of creativity or positivity until a little later in the morning.
Of course, my afternoon or evenings are rock star level. Whatever is your most naturally productive time, take advantage of it and don’t fight it.
What Are Your Treats?
What are the treats of the day? While I may be focused on tasks throughout the day, I allow for those treats too. What does that mean? You may be thinking buying yourself something or indulging in something sweet, but no. It’s far simpler than that!
Why not wear your favorite blouse and stop saving it for a special occasion? Meet a friend for lunch instead of eating alone in the house (unless social distancing is required). Light a candle or incense. When things smell great, for some reason I am in a much better mood! Whatever brings you joy should be considered.
At times, I have tasks that I have been avoiding. Instead of pretending I’m too busy for them, I usually make a deal with myself. If it gets accomplished, I’ll splurge on that special hard white cheddar and a glass of cabernet after the work day. It’s a nice way to self-motivate for bigger tasks. Your treats and rewards may differ drastically but what works for you is what is perfect, for you.
5. If You Choose To Work From Home
Do You … Your Way … For You
Develop An Approach That Is Unique To Only You
If you understand DNA or fingerprinting or even how beautiful a snowflake is then you already know you are absolutely unique. Because something works for someone else, it may actually be detrimental to you.
Take a personalized approach to your work and your home. Try new ways to do things in small steps. Do not completely rearrange your life because one person swears it’s THE BEST way to get everything done, all the time. Really? Every single person has a completely different life with all that implies: finances, family dynamics, physical and psychological limitations, and the list goes on.
Work From Home & Communicate
If you work for yourself, a personalized approach is incredibly beneficial but if you work from home for someone else, this may not be possible. Just don’t lose sight that perhaps since you aren’t commuting, you can sleep a tad longer. Maybe you can work a little longer if afternoons are little better for your rhythms.
Make those adjustments and ensure your boss understands your schedule, whatever it may be. You cannot be productive 24/7 so be realistic across the board.
2020 Stay Home Considerations
While choosing between working from home and working at a traditional place of business may be difficult under normal circumstances, it is far more stressful during the Coronavirus Pandemic in 2020. We address the needs of working from home during very difficult times in a separate post, How To Stay Home, Happy and Productive, part of our Health and Wellness category rolling out this year.
Great post!!! I really wanna work from home and love the advice!!!
I’ve been doing it so long that it was great to finally write about the experience!
Great tips! I struggle being productive as a blogger, but that’s mainly because I’m surrounded by my 5 and 3 year old. Finding balance is a key part of it! Thanks for the good advice 🙂
Having everyone suddenly home completely derailed our progress. One tactic that was immensely helpful was ear buds with motivating music helped so much! It may not be possible with younger kids under your roof unfortunately.