AIB presents a guide to creating an effective and successful working environment at home. Written by: Tara Dalrymple, Founder of Mission Possible – a
SaaS employee reward and recognition platform, which is
harnessing peer to peer communities to create happier, more productive and engaged staff http://www.linkedin.com/in/taradalrymple
7 Ways to Create a Successful Working Environment at Home
1. 7 Ways to Create a Successful
Working Environment at Home
October 2014
2. 1. Be organised
One of the most difficult aspects of working from
home is maintaining balance in your work. You
need to keep track of things that you have to do
without overcomplicating things. The reason
most people have found success by working from
home is that they were able to organise things
effectively. You can start by creating filing
systems, to-do lists and fixing your schedule.
3. 2. Set a specific work space
It is highly advisable that you set a specific work
space in your home. This is where you will set up
your computer, supplies, reference materials and
all other work-related things. Try to set your work
space away from your television, bed and all
other possible distractions and, as far as possible,
emulate what a true work environment looks like.
4. 3. Avoid distractions
Working at home means that you are vulnerable
to distractions and procrastination. The
television, your bed, pets, family members and
the fridge are just some of the distractions in
your home that can affect your work. The best
thing to do is to plan ahead. Have all the food
that you will need, plan your kids’ activities ahead
and, as previously mentioned, stay in your
defined work space to remain focused.
5. 4. Set a specific time for work
If your work does not require you to work certain
hours, then you should create a timetable for
each day’s activities. You should set time for work
and time for yourself and your family. For
example, you need to set your work schedule
around your children’s naps or caregiver’s
schedule. This way, you can work effectively
without interruptions.
6. 5. Maintain a healthy lifestyle
Working at home can lead to an inactive lifestyle
and weight problems. Make sure that you set
some time for exercise and watch your diet. After
all, your health is your wealth.
7. 6. Let your friends and family know
about your working hours
In order for you to work effectively, inform your
friends and family of the hours you work, and ask
them not to call you unless it’s important. Make
sure that they understand and respect your
working hours.
8. 7. Take breaks
Do not dedicate too much time solely to work.
Get some short breaks during your working day.
Give yourself some time to stretch or have a cup
of tea. This will enable your mind and body to
recharge. Taking breaks will increase your
productivity as you will feel refreshed, mentally
and physically, when you go back to work.
Written by: Tara Dalrymple, Founder of Mission Possible – a
SaaS employee reward and recognition platform, which is
harnessing peer to peer communities to create happier, more
productive and engaged staff
http://www.linkedin.com/in/taradalrymple