Working remotely has some major perks, but there have definitely been some learning curves along the way as I have established a sustainable routine over the last 6.5 years
1. Dedicated space. Create a dedicated space that separates work from normal life, even if it's a small corner—leave your computer there if possible to create an intentional separation.
2. Communicate expectations. Communicate what "flexibility" looks like for you—working remotely offers some additional flexibility you may not have in a traditional office setting, but flexibility can easily blur to "working any time and all the time." Do your best to establish a routine and communicate to your manager/team your schedule and working hours.
3. Meeting fatigue. Whether in the office or remote, it is very easy to over schedule. Find ways to accomplish conversations/projects async as to not schedule unnecessary meetings. If a meeting is needed, ensure there is a pre-read and pre-defined goals before you join the call.
4. Take breaks. When not in an office with natural "watercooler / coworker meal time," it's easy to spend eight hours at your screen. It's been important for me to create non-negotiables I accomplish before I sit down to my computer (mine are exercise, breakfast, reading, and a full jug of water) in the morning as well as blocking time throughout the day to take a short break for food, fresh air, etc.
I would not trade the opportunity I have to work remotely but would definitely recommend stepping into a fully remote position with intention; set boundaries, create work-life balance and change it up when what you're doing isn't optimizing your performance as an employee—and a human too.
—Emily, Executive Operations, iFIT
