4 Tips to Find Joy while Working From Home

We’ve been sheltering at home about 10 weeks now. At this point, Working From Home (WFH) is getting messy and it’s beginning to stress me out a bit. Especially when there are papers on the dining room table. Others tell me that they’re at about that point as well because this WFH mode is going on much longer than anticipated. And for many, they also have to play the role of Teacher, too. (Bless you all, teachers and parents!)
 
When working from home, “maintaining a clear division between your work and your home life will make it easier to show up fully for both,” according to Marie Kondo, the tidying maven. Here are 4 quick tips from Kondo to help you bring a little more order to your space – without committing to a long or comprehensive tidying adventure.
 

1. Create a Tidy Haven
2. Signal the Start of Your Work Day
3. Set Boundaries and Take Breaks
4. Make Connections

1.  Create a Tidy Haven: Ideally, you should have one space where you can work. Designate a space for your work and the objects that are essential to getting things done. If you don’t have an office, use a box, tray, or other container to keep everything in one spot. “Creating a calm, uncluttered environment will enhance both productivity and joy,” says Kondo. Unpack in the morning and at the end of the day, you can store things out of sight so they don’t distract you during your personal time.
 
2.  Signal the Start of Your Work Day: We are creatures of habit so don’t overlook the importance of having a small doodling in your journal for the day. You’ll be telling your mind and your body that it’s time to switch to work mode.
 
3.  Set Boundaries and Take Breaks: This one is hard, especially if there are other adults or children around, but it’s vital. Nearly half of our work day is taken up by non-essential things, emails, meetings, and interruptions. Set aside a specific time to deal with those and don’t waiver. My rule is “don’t bother me unless there’s blood or fire.” Nothing else should interrupt your focus. If you tell your family when you will be taking breaks, they can wait to talk with you then. And be certain that you take some breaks just to clear your head or maybe take a walk around the block.

4. Make Connections: Take a little time each day to actually talk to your co-workers. Focus a few minutes on catching up and chatting, which helps everyone stay engaged and working toward your common goals. And don’t discount the value of a video conversation – seeing the other person helps to reconnect and give your full attention to the conversation. I just had my first non-work Zoom call with two friends who I talk to or email a fair amount, but seeing their faces just made it all seem more real and relaxing. And CONNECTED!

These are 4 small and easy steps to help drive productivity when you’re in WFH mode. Now, if it gets too overwhelming, just try one at a time. And remember that if you need help, I offer free consultations and virtual tidying sessions to help you find joy in your life ... and your work.
 
Until next time,
 
Mrg
605-929-1493
mrg.simon@designed2stick.com