Create + Cultivate

View Original

How To Be Productive When Working Remotely

Welcome to Work's a Beach. Throughout this content series, we're helping our readers get the most out of their summer and spend more of their time lounging rather than catching up on emails. 

Today, we're tackling remote work. A lot of people say that working from home is the millennial dream, but you can get stuck in a rut if you don't do it the right way. And yes, there is, in fact, a right way to work virtually from anywhere. It's not all fun and games once you have an internet connection, you need to set yourself up right in order to make the most of it. 

We're breaking down the steps you need to take to happily do remote work, and not spend your time wishing you were back in an office setting. 

Do any remote workers out there have any tips of their own they'd like to share? Let us know in the comments section!

Take A Morning Shower 

After you've had your morning coffee, hop in the shower and relax for a minute. Taking a morning shower isn't only refreshing, it's energizing and gets you ready tackle that overflowing inbox. Having a few moments to yourself in the morning is ideal, and let's face it, sometimes are best thoughts happen in the shower. 

Put on 'Normal' Clothes

I know, I know. It's so tempting to lay around and work in your pajamas all day, but trust me, you're just doing yourself a disservice. You work just as hard as anyone in an office does, so why not dress for the part? As comfortable as they are, hanging out in pajamas or your favorite sweatpants can promote laziness or an environment that's too chill to work in. I'm not saying you have to throw on a blazer while working from your dining table, but you get the hint. 

Stick to a Schedule

Having your own freedome is great, right? Sure, until you lose track of time and are rushing to meet a deadline because you don't have a schedule planned out. Do as you would anywhere else and give yourself designated hours to get sh*t done. If you don't like the 9-5 schedule, that's fine, but figure out a time slot that works for you daily. It'll make your life so much less hectic. 

Create a Designated Workspace

If we're being realistic, very few of us have an office in our homes. This is the time to get creative and build a workspace that will keep you productive and in the zone. Get rid of clutter surrounding where you usually work, and maybe invest in a nice desk and chair if you have the room for it. Your couch will get boring AF real quick. 

Plan Your Meals

One of the most challenging things about working from home is that you have your entire fridge and pantry available to you at all times. UGH. The endless amounts of snacks can really make you crash in the middle of the day if you're not cautious. Meal prepping will keep your mind and appetite in check, and make you stop reaching for every snack in sight. This is a tough one, but I have faith in you. 

If All Else Fails, Consider a Co-Working Space

Okay,so maybe working from home isn't for everyone. By that I mean working from wherever you actually call home. If the motivation really isn't there, but you still don't want to work in a traditional office setting, then consider a co-working space. You can usually rent a spot at a table or your own desk for a monthly or annual fee. You'll be surrounded by other independent workers and creatives, which can help keep you motivated and productive. 

By: Andrea Navarro

MORE FROM OUR BLOG

See this gallery in the original post