HOW TO NOT GO CRAZY AS A REMOTE WORKER

Remote work has been on the rise these days. More and more people are going into business for themselves - I see you freelancers! - or jobs are accepting how beneficial having remote workers can be! While the freedom and flexibility of working remotely can be liberating, it can also be isolating and overwhelming. I have been in the remote game for a long time - 5 years to be exact - and over the years I have felt the woes of working remotely, or rather working ALONE.

There are SO many things that I LOVE about working remotely, most importantly being that fact that I can work from where ever there is wifi. I don't have to book time off to go visit my sister. I can load up my laptop and hit the road and still clock in on time the next day! It does come with a lack of structure, routine and a slippery slope into unhealthy habits if I chose to let it.

Fear not! Here are some simple, effective strategies to help you stay balanced and sane while working remotely!

1. CREATE ROUTINE
   One of the biggest challenges of working remotely is the lack of routine. Without the usual office hours, it's easy for work and life to blur together. I can't tell you the amount if times I hit snooze too many times if I didn't have anything pressing like a meeting to report to. Establishing a consistent routine can create a sense of normalcy and help you set clear boundaries between work and personal time.
   
   This routine doesn't have to be elaborate by any means. You can start by setting a regular wake-up time, getting dressed - yes, even if you’re working from home. It makes a HUGE difference -, and having designated work hours. Try to incorporate daily rituals, like a morning cup of coffee or a midday walk, to add structure to your day. A routine not only keeps you organized, but it also signals to your brain when it's time to work and when it's time to unwind.
   
   

2. FIND A CIRCLE OF FRIENDS
   Remote work can and will be lonely at times. I didn't realize how isolating it can be until I was full force with my business. Seeing coworkers everyday can fill your social battery so much without you noticing! It's important to intentionally build a social circle, even if you’re not in a traditional office environment. Luckily, technology offers several ways to connect with like-minded individuals.
   
   I've been dabbling with apps like Bumble BFF (non spon) which is designed specifically for meeting new friends! It's a dating app but for friends! I also LOVE taking advantage of different Facebook groups! There are a million different groups that you can join out there! Try searching for your city/area + whatever you're passionate about. IE: [Your City] Hiking, [Your Area] Climbing, Women Digital Nomads.
   
   Remember to not ONLY chat about work! You are a whole ass human and you are more than your business.
   
   

3. WORK/LIFE BALANCE
   One of the dangers of working from home is the temptation to always be on call. When your home is your office, it can be difficult to switch from work mode to relax/bed rot mode. Creating a healthy work-life balance is essential.
   
   If you can, designate a specific workspace. I know it's not accessible to everyone to have a designated office, especially in this economy, but even having a corner of your dining room table that you sit at to work with your laptop each day can help creating a boundary. Maybe your city has a co-working space that you can frequent. I personally am a big fan of bringing my laptop to a local cafe and treating myself to an Americano - or a London Fog if I'm feeling freaky. Having a physical boundary between your work and personal life makes it easier to mentally separate the two. If you can, avoid working from your couch or bed—they should be reserved for relaxation!
   
   This is your permission to leave your work at your desk so that you can fully relax and recharge during your off-hours!
   
   

4. MOVE YOUR BODY
   I have been personally victimized by not going outside for an embarrassing amount of time. Moving your body and getting outside will help strengthen that work/life balance that we talked about earlier. Again, this doesn't have to be extravagant. I'm not asking you to train for a marathon - more power to ya if you are thought! My sister and my best friend have both run marathons and I am so proud of them from the sidelines 💖. Start by going outside and taking a deep breath. Put your feet on some grass.
   
   Some ways that I incorporate some more movement into my day is walking to the grocery store rather than driving. I try to walk where I can! A win-win all around.
   
   My local climbing gym has a weekly "ladies night" and I finally went! It was a great way to move my body, meet new friends and step away from my computer! Remote work allows you the flexibility to fit in movement, so take advantage of it!
   

Remote work offers freedom and flexibility, but without boundaries and connections, it can also be a recipe for burnout. By establishing a routine, creating a circle or friends, maintaining work-life balance, and staying active, you can thrive in the remote work environment without losing your sanity. Remember, it's all about balance—taking care of both your professional and personal life while enjoying the perks that remote work has to offer!

Create that structure, find your community, and enjoy the benefits of remote work without going crazy!

Big Love,
Carly