3 Keys to Working Remotely

With the trend toward more companies hiring more freelance and fulltime remote workers, many of us (including the Yalo Tribe) find ourselves working from home . . . or other more creative spaces that aren’t offices. This flexible approach to workspace can have its pros and cons, but these tips have helped our crew thrive in these less structured environments.

Setting the Space

If given the opportunity to work remotely, then you will definitely want to make sure you create a work space that gives you good vibes. Ideally you should pick a space that provides ample natural light. One study suggests that access to natural light and outdoor views is the#1 most desirable office perk. Not only does natural light boost worker performance but it can also improve your sleep. So be sure to set up shop near a window if possible. Open those blinds and feed off the sunlight!

Another important aspect of setting your space is to make it uniquely YOUR space. Turn it into a place that motivates you and gives you positive energy. All it takes is one or two visuals to make the space your own. Personalize your workspace however you see fit, even down to the desk and chair options. Do you go for style and comfort? Maybe you’re a Dwight Schrute fitness orb kinda person? I opted for the adjustable standing desk and love being able to switch it up during the day.

Schedule Sweet Spot

One of the biggest benefits of working remotely is the ability to make your own schedule. But make no mistake about it, even if it changes daily, you will need to have some sort of schedule or routine to be optimally efficient each day. Much like a workspace, the actual work schedule itself can vary from person to person and day to day, based on factors like employer protocol, job tasks/duties and home-life responsibilities. While some employers hold a tighter rein on their remote workers, others allow for a bit more freedom. However, we all get to decide when that morning alarm will go off.

Are you an early riser or a night owl? Some prefer to beat the sun, get in an early morning workout and knock out all of those emails before the day has even begun, while someone like Amazon’s Jeff Bezos, takes a slightly less heroic approach. Another thing to remember is that the work/home lines can get blurry for remote workers, so it’s important to try your best to define the beginning and end of each of your workdays. For example, I officially start my workday by writing out my daily to-do list. Try different schedule/routine approaches and find the sweet spot that works best for you. You can also use a hybrid approach, shifting the workday hours (and even location) as needed.

Mix it up

While studies show that remote workers are more productive than their in-office counterparts, there are still common pitfalls to avoid. For example, remote workers are just that…remote. Not having that everyday water cooler experience can be off-putting for some. So why not mix it up every once in a while? Going back to that schedule sweet spot, perhaps you can try blocking off some days to work from a coffee shop or a coworking space to get some human interaction. This does wonders for your mindset and overall productivity.

Bonus tips from the Yalo Tribe

• Shower.
• Don’t work in your nighttime jammies. At the very least, switch to daytime jammies or throw on some nice athleisure wear.
• Crank up the tunes for extra motivation/inspiration.
• Technology is your friend. Use it. Our Tribe communicates with each other via Viber.
• Have the TV on in the background to fill the void.
• Coffee. Lots and lots of coffee.
• Get out and see people.
• Have lunch with your spouse or friend.
• Work at a Starbucks for a few hours.
• You can’t replace the aura of just being around other people sometimes to feel alive.