Top Tips for Working from Home

Like many of you, to manage physical distancing guidelines and keep our bubbles small, a lot of us here at truLOCAL have set up home offices so we can work from home and keep the business moving along safely. If you are lucky enough to have one of the many new work from home jobs, make sure that you set yourself up for success because, while working from home has some definite perks (like all-day pajama pants and endless snacks), getting work done from the comforts of home can have some challenges, too. We’ve put together our best tips for making the move from the office to home as seamless as possible. 

1. Set up a dedicated work space! 

When you’re working from home it can be all too easy to get distracted by everything going on around you - even if it’s not quite work-related. Whether it’s that extra load of laundry, those dirty dishes sitting on the counter from last night, or the next episode of Grey’s that’s calling your name for what feels like the hundredth time, there are tons of distractions surrounding you all day long. Setting up a defined space helps get you - and keep you - in work mode and away from those temptations. Having a distinct area to work from can also help you to maintain your routine of “going to work”, since your work area and leisure area are separated. As a bonus, it can also signal to others at home that you’re busy at work and to leave you to it - chores, TV, and playtime can wait! 

2.Stick to defined hours

Just like the space, the hours can often run together when you’re working from home. That’s why it’s even more important to set defined work hours, and stick to them (this is key). As easy as it may be to answer that after-hours email, or to log on while you sip your morning coffee, it can make the days feel like they’re dragging on - and leave you less productive! If you worked from 9-5 in the office - keep that up at home, and ensure your work time is for work, and the rest of the day is reserved for that well-deserved rest and relaxation.

3.Order your groceries online

Used to picking up this or that on your way home? Now that you’re working from home, a trip out to the grocery store can seem like a much bigger task than it once was. Save yourself the trip and order your groceries online! Many grocery stores offer online delivery, or better yet, try out a subscription service. Food subscription services (like truLOCAL) can save you time and money in the long run. You no longer have to worry about keeping your freezer stocked with dinner time staples - and there’s no need to hop in the car and line up at a store for one or two items. Choose your favourite proteins like 100% grass-fed and finished beef or wild-caught sockeye salmon, select a size and schedule that works best for your family, and use that extra time you save for your next Netflix binge or a cozy bath.

4.Go for a walk

It’s extra important when you’re spending so much time inside to get out and stretch those legs once in a while. Add a few fifteen minute breaks to your schedule, and use them to get out, stretch, and take a quick walk around the block. It’ll keep your body in better shape, get you into a clearer state of mind, and help you focus for the rest of the day. 

5.Maintain good posture

Making sure you’re sitting correctly while working is an extra challenge when working from home. We’ve seen it all - working from the couch, the edge of your bed, your breakfast bar stools, or even camped out on the floor. You’re not always positioned as ergonomically as you might be when you're in a typical office. But you’re not alone - many people need help in this area to help optimize your workspace and prevent chronic fatigue injuries at your desk. Set up a dedicated office space complete with a desk and a nice ergonomic chair. Even if you have to spend some cash now, it will save you pain and potential costs later.

Making the most of working from home can make all the difference. As we all navigate unfamiliar circumstances, creating a new sense of normalcy around the workday can help to alleviate some of the mental (and physical) strain that comes with managing the unknown - while helping to keep us safe and healthy. 

Posted on August 10th, 2023