How to Keep Your Sanity When Working From Home

Every time I tell someone I work from home, they gaze at me with envy. While yes, it’s super nice I stroll to my office in my PJs and my commute is 15 seconds, it does have its downsides. It can make you a little stir crazy spending majority of your time in the same spot you eat and sleep.

I can pretty much assume my neighbors think I’m a bum considering I take the dogs out at 2 in the afternoon in my PJs. And while it’s nice to not have to put on real clothes most days, it’s not the most ideal way to conduct yourself.

It took me a while to figure out how I could make working from home work for me. Here are my best tips!

5 Things to Keep From Going Stir Crazy

1. Even though you may be able to work whenever you want, create a set schedule. I still struggle with this. When I don’t set strict hours, I end up working weekends, evenings, and just odd hours in general. By setting specific hours to work — like a traditional 9-to-5 — you can ensure that your weekends and evenings are free. You’ll also find yourself getting more done because your brain learns that those hours mean it’s time to work and get shit done.

2. Shower. Do your hair. Put on some makeup. Get dressed. This may seem silly since you may go some days without seeing a single person, and let’s face it — your dog could care less what you look like. But you’ll feel better and subsequently be more productive.

3. Get out and interact with people. It can be a little depressing not being able to have face-to-face contact with people every day. Go to a coffee shop, go to lunch with a friend or maybe hit up the gym. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays are my favorite days because I head to The Fit Pit and get to see my two favorite people: Jenn and Gwen.

4. Get active electronically. It’s a great idea to connect with communities online that relate to your interests. Spend some time on LinkedIn or join other networks that make you feel as though you belong to a community.

5. Ramp up your tech skills. You tend to be left to your own devices when working from home. Take some time to explore the software or electronics you use on a daily basis. And if you’re lucky enough to have an IT team, don’t be afraid to butter them up.

It takes a certain type of person to work from home successfully. Just remember, organization and self-discipline is your best friend. You are granted great freedom when working from home — don’t take it for granted!

What are your thoughts on working from home? Could you do it? —Erika