Working from home is the dream… until it’s not. One minute you’re thriving in your sweatpants, and the next, you’re wondering how you ended up eating cereal at your desk at 2 p.m. while your emails scream for attention.
Working from home isn’t about being perfect. It’s about finding what works for you so you can stay productive without turning into a stress ball. Ready? Let’s talk about five tips that’ll help you get it together (or at least fake it convincingly).
Pretend You Have a Commute
Okay, just hear me out. A “commute” doesn’t have to involve sitting in traffic or waiting for the train. It can be a short walk around the block, brewing coffee with way too much focus, or blasting your favorite playlist while tidying up.
This little ritual helps you shift from “at home” mode to “I’m a professional who’s got this” mode. Plus, it’s a great excuse to avoid jumping straight into emails before your brain is even awake.
Get a Workspace That Feels Legit
Look, I know working from bed is tempting, but let’s call it what it is: a productivity black hole. Before you know it, you’ll be horizontal, scrolling TikTok, and wondering why nothing’s getting done.
Set up a spot that feels like work, even if it’s just a tiny corner of the kitchen table. Bonus points if you add something nice, like a candle or a plant. You’re more likely to take your work seriously when your “office” doesn’t double as your nap zone.
Stick to a Schedule (and Don’t Skip Lunch)
Without a plan, your day can morph into one long, chaotic blur. Suddenly it’s 4 p.m., and you’re still in your PJs, Googling “how to focus.”
Set a schedule that works for you. If you’re a night owl, lean into that. Start later and go later. Just make sure you pencil in actual breaks, especially lunch. No one does their best work hangry, and reheating leftovers counts as self-care.
Learn to Say “No” to Distractions
If you’ve ever tried to work while a pet is clawing at your door or your neighbor is mowing their lawn again, you know the struggle. Distractions are everywhere, and no one’s immune.
The trick? Boundaries. Shut the door if you can, invest in noise-canceling headphones, or tell your roommate/partner/pet/kid that you’re “in a meeting.” (Even if that meeting is with your to-do list.)
And your phone? Hide it. Seriously, put it in another room. TikTok doesn’t need to know you exist for the next two hours.
Treat Yourself Like the Rock Star You Are
Finished a big project? Celebrate. Survived back-to-back Zoom calls? Celebrate harder. Working from home is tough, and it’s okay to reward yourself for showing up.
Maybe it’s a fancy coffee, maybe it’s 10 minutes of doing absolutely nothing—whatever makes you happy. Rewards keep you motivated and remind you that you’re crushing it, even if it doesn’t always feel that way.
The Bottom Line
Working from home is less about finding balance and more about building habits that make sense for you. Give yourself grace on the messy days, celebrate the wins (big or small), and remember: productivity isn’t about being perfect. It’s about making progress—one snack break at a time.
Now, go tackle that day (and maybe put on some real pants… or don’t).
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