How To Find The Right Balance While Working From Home

Those who work from home may well see it as their new normal, but keeping work and personal lives separate can be challenging when they share the same space. Shifting gears from model employee to housemate or family member is tough, but not impossible. Below, we’ve gathered 10 strategies to help you balance working from home with personal well-being.

1) Plan Your Day With Purpose

A well-structured plan is a roadmap leading to a productive and fulfilling day. Outline your tasks with a focus on priority, ensuring you allocate time for work commitments and personal activities.

• Use a digital planner for task management.
• Set clear work and personal life boundaries.
• Prioritize tasks to focus on high-impact activities first.

2) Establish A Dedicated Workspace

A distinct work area in your home can enhance focus and help you shift into professional mode. This space should be organized, comfortable, and separate from personal living areas to create a clear mental division between your work and personal time.

• Invest in ergonomic furniture for comfort.
• Personalize your workspace to inspire productivity.
• Maintain a clean and clutter-free environment.

3) Utilize Technology Effectively

Put technology to work for you. Look into project management software and time-tracking apps and use them to streamline your workflow and communication. You can customize notification settings to minimize interruptions and consciously choose tech-free periods to encourage deep work.

Manage your use of technology so that it supports your workflow rather than interrupts it, ensuring that you remain focused and productive.

• Use productivity apps to streamline tasks.
• Schedule specific times for checking emails and social media.
• Implement website blockers during work hours to maintain focus.

4) Take Regular Breaks

Intersperse your work with short breaks to prevent burnout and maintain high levels of creativity and productivity. Consider incorporating activities such as a brisk walk, a power nap, or a hobby during these intervals.

These breaks serve as a breather from work and an opportunity for subconscious problem-solving. When you return to work, you might be surprised by what fresh insights come to you!

• Step away from your desk for a brief period every hour.
• Practice deep breathing or meditation to clear your mind.
• Engage in a quick physical activity to re-energize.

5) Focus Intensely On Tasks

When it’s time to work, clear your workspace of non-essential items and use noise-canceling headphones (if necessary) to create a sanctuary for focus.

Eliminate distractions and commit to your task with full attention, leveraging techniques like the Pomodoro method to structure work and rest periods effectively. Aim for a state of flow where productivity feels effortless and enjoyable.

• Create a distraction-free zone during work hours.
• Apply concentration techniques like the Pomodoro method.
• Set mini-goals for each task to maintain motivation.

6) Build A Support Network

No one achieves success in isolation, so cultivate a supportive environment at home by communicating your needs and schedules with family members and housemates. You can also maintain professional relationships through regular virtual connections with colleagues.

• Organize family/house meetings to discuss schedules and support.
• Use online tools for maintaining professional connections.
• Establish clear boundaries and expectations with housemates.

7) Expand Your Knowledge Online

Continuous learning is key to personal and professional growth. Allocate time for online courses, webinars, and workshops to enhance your skills and stay current with industry trends.

• Dedicate a set time each week for online learning.
• Enroll in courses like Entrepreneurship Online with Lamar or any other program that can align with your interests and career advancement.
• Share knowledge with peers to foster a learning community.

8) Prioritize Self-Care

Self-care is a necessity, so look for activities that nourish your well-being. Exercise, hobbies, and relaxation are all elements of a good self-care practice that will help you perform at your best — both personally and professionally.

• Schedule regular exercise into your weekly routine.
• Engage in hobbies that disconnect you from work.
• Practice relaxation techniques like yoga or mindfulness.

9) Evaluate Your Balance Regularly

Reflection is crucial for balance. You should periodically review how your work-from-home arrangement is affecting your life and make adjustments as necessary to ensure your personal well-being.

• Keep a journal to track your work-life integration.
• Set aside time for regular self-assessment.
• Be willing to adapt your schedule and strategies for improved balance.

10) Celebrate Your Achievements

Recognize and honor the milestones you reach. Whether you’ve completed a challenging project or simply achieved a daily balance, celebrating these wins reinforces positive behavior and contributes to a sense of accomplishment and happiness.

• Create a success board to visually represent your achievements.
• Share your accomplishments with friends or family.
• Reward yourself with meaningful experiences after reaching your goals.

The Future Of Working From Home

Navigating the intricacies of home-based work and personal life is not about finding a one-size-fits-all solution — it’s about creating a lifestyle uniquely suited to your daily routine. It requires patience and practice, but with effort, you can establish seamless coexistence between your professional and personal realms.

 

This article is part of Buildremote’s contributor series. Occasionally, we’ll share other people’s ideas about running a remote company. If you have a topic you’d like to pitch for Buildremote, send us an idea here.