How To Master The Art of Working from Home
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HOW TO MASTER THE ART OF WORKING FROM HOME
When you work from home (as many of us creatives do) it’s far too easy to become stuck—stuck behind a computer screen, stuck behind an easel, stuck sitting, thinking, grinding. And getting un-stuck, as one would say, is no easy feat.
After all, so many of us are a one-women or one-man show and it all comes down to “me, myself, and I.” So when you feel as though you are losing momentum, it feels personal—because it is personal. It’s up to you to set your days, track your progress and stay mindful of goals and deadlines. So how can you get out of your own way (and get out of your own head) when you work from home?
Here's what we recommend:
1. Be intentional
Sure, it’s easier to work in pajamas from bed. But is this the best perspective to inspire creative thought? Maybe not. Try to carve out a designated work space, station, area in your home for work and only work, which will hopefully trigger a productive mindset—it’s business time.
Also, build in a routine that works for you, and one you can accomplish daily. Whether it’s writing 1000 words every day before 10 a.m. (even if in hindsight they are nonsense) or generating two business proposals per day, whatever it may be, consistency is key. This way, once the mundane is crossed off your list you can allow yourself to be free, to get out of your own way and create, think big picture, shake out new ideas—all within the intentional framework of your day.
2. Find a community
Sometimes easier said than done. But don’t give up! This community doesn’t necessarily need to be tied to business, potential clients or collaborators, or mentors even (but bonus points if it does!). What it definitely does need to provide, however, is meaningful relationships to offer perspective, encouragement and support.
This can present itself in many forms, whether for business or pleasure. But the real point is this: you need a community of like-minded individuals that can provide social (not the online-network kind but real face-to-face) interaction. Because spending long hours at home may fill the bank account, but you need people to fill your soul.
3. Practice resilience
Pitfalls inevitably occur. Lazy days happen. To-do lists stay long. Keep going anyway. There is strength in the doing, so just do—finish something if just to say it’s done. Keep moving, choose a path, embrace feedback, and execute with certainty. When you feel yourself hitting a wall, recognize what it means for you and pivot. Be flexible (as needed) and reach elsewhere to fend off sinking into the stuck mindset. Don’t let it become all consuming.
You’ve fought uphill battles before (and if this is your first one, let us remind you)—they are surmountable. It’s ok to be nervous, anxious even, during the long days working for and by yourself—that nervous energy means you care deeply about what you are creating. But also channeling those fears, letting yourself and your mind venture to new creative places is vital for you and your business.
So, when it’s all said and done, don’t waste your days away with worry and stuck-ness. Channel that go get ‘em attitude that pushed you to begin your journey as a creative, entrepreneur, freelancer in the first place and just go get ‘em.
Written by Wellness Editor Brooke Klauer on behalf of Clementine Daily