Tips for Thriving While at Home

1. Create separate spaces.

Take time to create a space dedicated for work and other spaces dedicated for relaxation. It is vital to separate the two so you can successfully get shit done.

Turning the dining room into your home office if you do not have one or, putting together an office in a vacant room. Whatever creating space looks like for you, do it! This will increase your productivity when you are working because now you have a dedicated space. It can seem mediocre but makes a world of difference when you need to focus on work projects in a setting you would normally chill in. It is difficult to work from the same place you normally catch up on your favorite show. If you are limited, find ways to work around it, maybe purchase a small fold out table that can be stored away whenever you are done.

2. Schedule out work & play.

Don't fall into a schedule that has no boundaries or cut offs.

If you normally work 8 hours a day, schedule out that time, instead of getting stuck after hours and not giving yourself the break you need. Do you struggle with staying on task? Use an online calendar and add what you want to work on by the time you think is needed for each task. Then make sure the sound is up for alerts when to move on to the next assignment.

3. Make time for clarity.

Make sure you find time to center yourself for the next day-week ahead.

After your work is done and you have learned to schedule out time, cook a meal, maybe watch your favorite show, make time for moments of peace. This can look different for everyone and even look different each time you do it, but it is necessary. Take a moment to have a long walk without any disruptions (no calls or texts) with calming music or your favorite peaceful playlist. Meditate before bed with a warm mug of sleepy-time tea. Journal your thoughts after dinner with a meditation playlist and a glass of wine. These can be simple things that make the difference for you to check in with you.

4. Branching out is okay, just be careful.

This pandemic has many of us scared but that does not have to limit you completely to the outside world.

Be smart about branching out, no big gatherings, events, or parties. Keep it small, simple, and cute with a picnic in the park, trip to a large store during the week when it is less crowded. Host a small yoga session with your neighbor in the backyard or meet someone at the local coffee shop and sit outside. Look up local outdoor outings nearby like a mountain hiking train, lake activities such as paddle boarding, or ride your bike downtown and explore outdoor art.

Just remember to stay safe and this is temporary.