How to Successfully Work Remotely

Do you like working in your PJs, being able to grab the kids from school on time, and making dinner while on conference calls? We do too. I would be lying to you if I said it sucks to work remotely. In fact, it’s awesome. At Seafoam, we all work from home, or wherever we like because it allows us the freedom to work in our best atmosphere, where we are most productive. We do our best work because we are happier, and more comfortable where we are working.
While, it seems like the best thing since yoga ball chairs– there actually are a few pitfalls to spending most work hours away from the office. With this in mind, we want to go over a few steps on how to avoid these cons and make the most of working remotely.

4 Tips to Successfully Work Remotely:

1. Avoid the couch trap

I have a love/hate relationship with my couch when I work from home. It is so easy to get sucked into working on the comfy couch all day with my favorite show playing in the background. But, at the end of the day, when I work from my couch- my back hates me, and my productivity suffers. When you work from home you have to pull yourself off the couch and into a functional workspace. Get a nice desk, comfortable (but not too comfortable) work chair, natural light, and whatever else you need to focus. Small tweaks like adding plants, making sure your office has a door, and the right temperature can help improve concentration and work quality.

2. Have Your Tools

Get everything you need to work your best. This means laptops, desktops, tablets, chargers- whatever it takes. Also make sure you have the best apps to stay connected to your team. We use Slack to stay connected and keep in touch while we are away from the office.

3. Take Care of Yourself

Lack of exercise, a rigid schedule and fresh air make it easy to for remote workers to neglect their health. Make sure to step outside whenever possible and take a walk, try to find ways to keep moving during the day and stretch. Also stock your house with plenty of healthy food and snacks! Yogurt, blueberries, and apples are my go-to work snacks.
4. Keep a routine
It can be easy to play each day by ear, sleep in, and start to mix home and work life. Keep working hours and stick to them. It may be difficult at first, but you'll thank yourself at the end of your work hours when you can put away work and relax.
What are your favorite work from home tips? Do you like working from home or the office better? Share your answers with us on Facebook!