One of the things I love the most about being self-employed is never having to deal with 

• What am I going to wear?

• What idiot doesn’t know how to drive?

• What am I going to bring for lunch?

Nevermind not being able to get any actual work done because people keep stopping by my office.

I LOVE working from home.  

It’s literally the best perk ever. I’ve been working from home (WFH) for almost 20 years now so this is old hat for me. While the flexibility and freedom are unmatched, staying productive and motivated can be challenging.  Here's what I’ve learned over those 20 years that has made WFH super successful.

Create a Dedicated Workspace

First things first: set up a space that’s just for work. It doesn’t have to be a fancy office; a corner of your living room or a nook in your bedroom can do the trick. The key is to have a designated area where you can switch into work mode. 

**Pro Tip:** Make this space beautiful and filled with things that inspire you. Plants, artwork, or a comfy chair can make a huge difference.

Stick to a Routine

Having a consistent schedule can help you stay on track. Try to start and end your workday at the same times every day. This routine helps create a boundary between work and personal life, which is essential for mental health…do as I say, not as I do.

**Pro Tip:** Include regular breaks in your routine. Step away from your screen, stretch, and give your eyes a rest. A quick walk or a cup of tea can refresh your mind.

Dress the Part

I’ll admit, there are some day’s that my PJ’s linger well past noon, but getting dressed as if you’re going to an office can boost your productivity and get you in the “mood” for work. It doesn’t have to be business formal (I personally no longer own “business formal”; jeans are as fancy as I get these days), but changing out of your jammies can signal to your brain that it’s time to work.

Manage Your Time

Time management is crucial when working from home. Things like to-do lists, planners, and apps like Trello or Asana can help you prioritize tasks and stay organized.

**Pro Tip:** Use the Pomodoro Technique – work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. This method can help maintain focus and productivity.

Stay Connected

Working from home can feel isolating. Make an effort to stay connected with colleagues, clients, and fellow entrepreneurs. Regular check-ins, virtual & IRL coffee breaks, or networking events can help you feel part of a community. Trust me, it’s important…after too many conversations with yourself, it’s good to have someone that can answer.

Set Boundaries

It’s easy to let work spill into your personal life when your home is your office. Set clear boundaries to ensure you’re not overworking. Communicate your working hours to family or housemates, and try to stick to them.

Invest in Good Tools

Having the right tools can make a huge difference in your productivity. Invest in a good quality chair, a reliable computer, and any software you need to do your job effectively.

**Pro Tip:** Noise-canceling headphones can be a lifesaver if you have a noisy household.

Prioritize Self-Care

Working from home can blur the lines between work and personal time, making it easy to neglect self-care. Make sure you’re eating healthy, getting enough sleep, and taking time to relax and recharge.

**Pro Tip:** Schedule self-care activities just like you would a meeting. It can be anything from reading a book to doing yoga.

Continue Learning

Keep your skills sharp by taking online courses or attending virtual workshops. Learning new skills can keep you motivated and open up new opportunities for your business.

Embrace Flexibility

One of the biggest perks of working from home is flexibility. Embrace it! If you’re more productive at night, adjust your schedule to suit your natural rhythm. The key is to find what works best for you and your business.

I’ve started going to the gym at noon to break up my workday and it's been fabulous! I get a brain refresh and totally feel it throughout the day.

Final Thoughts

Working from home offers serious flexibility and freedom, but it requires discipline and self-motivation. This can sometimes be tricky but by creating a productive workspace, sticking to a routine, and taking care of yourself, you can make the most of your home office setup and thrive!