Working from Home: Creating a Routine

Transitioning to working from home can be pretty tough? Your work life and your home life suddenly merge into this big, chaotic mix. Both my husband and I work from home - what?!?! Yes, we do! And we make it work! The key is in setting up a solid schedule that can make all the difference.

Here are a few suggestions of some schedules we have tried. I will tell you that there isn't one that is perfect. And often, we rearrange schedules to keep things fresh. Too much consistency can sometimes be boring! So here are some tips to rock your home office game:

A Balanced Routine: This is one for all those who LOVE to be super structured!

• 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM: Wake up, freshen up, and have a healthy breakfast.

• 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Work on the most important tasks or projects. Take short breaks every hour to stretch and relax.

• 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Lunch break. Step away from your workspace and enjoy a nutritious meal (and a walk if you can!).

• 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM: Continue working on tasks.

• 3:00 PM - 3:30 PM: Take a short break for a snack and some fresh air.

• 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM: Complete remaining work tasks and wrap up for the day.

• 5:00 PM onwards: Walk away from your office...shut the door if you can!

Flex-Time Schedule: This is for those who want structure, but still like to be flexible.

• Morning: Start your workday whenever you feel most productive (e.g., 8:00 AM or 10:00 AM).

• Work Hours: Work in focused blocks, with breaks as needed. Aim for a total of 6-8 hours.

• Lunch: Take a break for lunch when it suits you, but make sure it's a PROPER meal break.

• Afternoon: Continue working or handle tasks as necessary.

• Evening: Wrap up work and finish by a specific time (e.g., 4:00 PM, 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM).

Structured Routine with Time Blocking: This is the one I lean towards!

• 6:30 AM - 7:00 AM: Wake up, morning routine, and breakfast.

• 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM: Help kids get out the door for school.

• 8:00 AM - 9:30 AM: Block for focused work, tackling high-priority tasks, checkign emails/Slacks from the day before

• 9:30 AM - 9:45 AM: Short break to get up and move.

• 9:45 AM - 10:15 AM: Breakfast (I do imtermittent fasting, so that's why I don't eay until later)

• 10:15 AM - 12:00 PM: Continue work or schedule virtual meetings.

• 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Lunch break and relaxation (this is the most flexible time for me)

• 1:00 PM - 3:30 PM: Afternoon work block, focusing on less demanding tasks.

• 3:30 PM - 3:45 PM: Short break for a snack and quick recharge.

• 3:45 PM - 5:00 PM: Complete tasks, respond to emails, and plan for the next day.

The most important thing is that you find something that works for you! These are not he the ONLY schedules out there, just some ideas of ways you can get started if you are new to working from home. Good luck and reach out with any questions!