Taylor's Tips

I'm back with more tips on how to get your butt down to business at home.

I've touched on this subject before but my relationship with my job and how I approach it is ever-evolving so I thought I'd add more as I've learned different things. These tips can help anyone whether you work from home or not. I know a lot of people struggle with being able to get things done when they're at home too whether it's homework or just extra work assignments.

There are pros and cons to working from home and I deal with both each day but as of lately, I've begun to enjoy it more and more.

Working from home can make you feel a little disconnected from the world. You don't leave during the day (and you can't because you have to get down to work!) You also don't have to get dressed or even shower which, while pretty awesome, can make you feel a tad bit useless.

On the other hand I love being able to just hop out of bed, head to the kitchen and enjoy a nice breakfast before work without having to worry about missing my bus or having time to shower. It's a pretty relaxing environment.

Some of my favourite things about working at home are getting to listen to my music all the time and always having delicious coffee at my disposal.

If you want to create a successful work environment at home follow these tips:

1. Create a workspace
Whether it's at the kitchen table or in your bed, or in an office, you need to create a space to get your work done. I've worked for almost everywhere in our apartment but I've found lately that my desk is the best place for me. It's a place that I know will help me focus and get things done.

2. Make it a comfortable environment
I love being able to play my own music all day long. I listen to the radio or put on records and just get to work. It's a good treat.

3. Find something that makes working from home feel luxurious
One of my favourite things is being able to have coffee any time of day. I love just sitting and sipping on a nice big mug of Joe while I'm working away. It makes me feel relaxed and happy. Maybe that can come from doing something different for you like sitting by a fire while you work, or having a nice snack. Enjoy something that people who work in traditional circumstances might not be able to.

4. Avoid distractions
I've learned that there are TONS of distractions around the house that keep me from being my most productive. Don't even try and fool yourself into thinking that you can be as productive as you need to be while sitting in front of the tv. It will just keep you working for double the time. I've also found that sitting in common areas in my apartment can lead to a lot of time spent talking and not a lot spent working. Instead I stay in my room all day and come out every once in a while to say hi and maybe make a coffee. It really cuts down on a lot of wasted time.

5. Have a clean environment
Messes are a distraction. I'm the type of person who can't work if there's mess around me. I use cleaning as a procrastination method. When my room is clean I can't waste time by cleaning it and there is nothing to pull my eyes away from my work.

6. Make lists
I can't say enough about making lists. They're so important. Not only do they help you plan your day but they keep you on track and keep you from getting distracted because they help you see what you have left to do for the day. Lists are the best tool for anyone at work!

Working from home definitely has it's ups and downs but for now I have a love affair with working from home and you should too!

From the desk of:

Taylor Brown
Pyjama Wearing Worker