Challenges that don’t exist for me:
Long commutes
Pet Sitters
Unsuitable Work Schedule
What is challenging is bumping my head and shutting off secretary mode. Why, you might ask? I work out of my home.
I HAD a big office on the first floor that was flooded with natural light, tall 10-foot ceilings and a large desk. What changed? My husband’s schedule. Insert record scratch.
Typically, he was getting home from work between 5 and six, now his schedule varies so much, I never know when he will show up. “Honey, great to see you, why are we folding underwear five minutes before my zoom meeting?“ Did I mention I commandeered his man cave? Oops.
Now, I commute to the second floor. With it’s angled ceilings, crazy, long layout and bumping my head is a thing, all the time. Funny thing, I love it.
Here is why. My small hairpin legged desk doesn’t face the wall. Read this article and stare at the pretty pictures, imagine what your work life could be! This of course after moving the furniture around twice. Actually, four times in two weekends. I finally found the sweet spot when I haphazardly plopped in my pink velvet chair and saw the view. What????
Arrange
Rearrange
Arrange
Second reason. It’s quiet and I can think.
What I can’t do is hear the television, or see the dishes in the sink.
Go me!
Here is where things got interesting. I got more work.
Segue into getting my act together and having plenty of clients and work to do. I’m arranging, rearranging and arranging my schedule.
HERE ARE THE Three ways I am accomplishing this:
Identifying my work patterns. When do I start/stop?
Where are the gaps?
Blocking up my time
Telling some of my people, I am trying something new! I may have to block out my time so I can accommodate all the new projects. With lots of diplomacy and perseverance show them how beneficial the new way is for them! Being clear on when I will be available. Anyone reading this balancing multiple clients knows the struggle is real.
Identifying my non-negotiables
I watch HGTV for one hour a day and drink my one cup of coffee. Not the news, not talk shows, HGTV. Doing this makes me, a better person. The shows brighten my day and put me in a good mood. Every time.
I take not one phone call during dinner.
I also clean off my desk every day. Clear desk equals clear head.
I hope these tips help you in some way. Maybe you have a spare room you can convert into an office? Maybe we work hit your town! And last tip of the day: never buy furniture you can’t move your damn self.
