10 top tips for working from home

Nick Daws gives tips on how to improve your WFH (work from home) life.

Due partly to the pandemic and lockdowns, many people now work from home some or all of the time. And many others now run home-based businesses or are considering setting one up.

Working from home (for those whose jobs make it feasible) has become a widely accepted part of the modern work landscape. While it offers unparalleled flexibility – not to mention time and money savings – it can also present some unique challenges. 

I have been working from home for over 30 years now, so in this article I thought I’d set out my top ten tips based on my experience. If you have recently started working from home, or expect to do so in future, I hope you might find this helpful.

These tips apply equally if you’re working for an employer or running a home-based business of the type often discussed in Mouthy Money.

1. Create a dedicated workspace

Designate a specific area in your home for work. Ideally this could be a separate study or office, but at least a quiet corner where you can set up your equipment and files and not have to pack everything away at the end of the day. Growing numbers of people now use garden sheds or extensions for home working, and this can be a good solution as well. 

Whether it’s a spare room or just a corner of your living room, having a dedicated workspace helps establish boundaries and signals to your brain that it is time to work.

2. Stick to a routine

Maintaining a regular schedule can significantly boost your productivity. Start your day at the same time, get dressed as if you were going to the office, and set clear working hours. This routine helps create a sense of normalcy and discipline. This is especially important when you are first starting out in WFH.

3. Take regular breaks

It’s essential to take breaks to avoid burnout. The Pomodoro Technique, which involves working for 25 minutes and then taking a 5-minute break, can be very effective. Use these breaks to stretch, grab a healthy snack or take a short walk. 

4. Stay connected

Isolation can be a significant drawback of working from home. This can be especially challenging if you are used to (and enjoy) having colleagues to talk to. Build some social interactions into every day if possible – ideally face to face, but at least via the phone and/or social media.

If you’re working from home for an employer, communicate regularly with your colleagues through video calls, instant messaging or virtual coffee breaks. Staying connected helps maintain team spirit and reduces feelings of loneliness. It can also offer opportunities to bounce ideas around and gain different perspectives on problems.

5. Set clear boundaries

Establish boundaries with family or housemates to minimise interruptions during work hours. Communicate your schedule and set up a system for when you can and cannot be disturbed.

6. Invest in quality equipment

A comfortable chair, a reliable computer, and a good internet connection are crucial. Ergonomic furniture can prevent back and neck pain, and a fast internet connection ensures you can participate in virtual meetings without interruptions. 

Obviously if you are working for an employer they should assist with this. But if you are running your own business you can at least claim the cost against taxable income. A good accountant will advise you about this.

7. Manage your time effectively

Prioritise tasks and set clear goals for each day. Tools like Trello, Asana, or even just a simple to-do list can help keep you on track. Time management techniques, such as time blocking, can also help in making the most of your day.

8. Maintain a healthy work-life balance

Working from home can blur the lines between work and personal life. Make it a point to log off at the end of your working day and engage in activities that help you relax and recharge, such as reading, exercising or spending time with friends and family.

9. Keep learning and upgrading your skills

Use the time saved on commuting to invest in professional development. Online courses, webinars and virtual workshops can help you acquire new skills and stay competitive in your field.

10. Practise self-care

Mental and physical health should be a priority. Incorporate activities like meditation, yoga or simple breathing exercises into your daily routine. Take regular exercise and get out in the fresh air. Ensure you get enough sleep, eat a balanced diet and stay hydrated.

By applying these tips, you can create a productive and balanced work-from-home environment. Embrace the flexibility WFH offers, while taking steps to maintain your personal well-being and professional efficiency.

As always, if you have any comments on this article, please do leave them below.

Nick Daws writes for Pounds and Sense, a UK personal finance blog aimed especially (though not exclusively) at over-fifties.

Photo credits: Pexels