Learning to be Intentional when it comes to a work – life balance can be challenging at the best of times. As realtors, we are our own bosses. Which means, we am solely responsible for setting our own work hours, goals, and creating a daily routine that allows us to be successful. We believe in working smart, as well as working hard, and that spending quality time with family means much more than the quantity of time we spend together.
Since many people have experienced a change in their work environment over the last 2 years, we though we’d share a few “working from home” tips that we’ve found helpful.
- Set the stage for success. It’s important to designate a work/office space and set it up with everything you need to complete your work-related tasks throughout the day. Items like a trash bin, stapler, computer etc. should be close to hand. It’s also important that your workspace is NOT in your bedroom if possible. As studies have shown that working in the room intended for rest messes up your brains’ ability to do just that.
- Create a routine. Set a start time to your work day, as well as a time for coffee and lunch breaks. Use an alarm on your phone to remind you it’s time to get up and stretch, take a much-needed break, and fuel your body.
- Put up a “Do Not Disturb” sign within your designated office space to remind other household members that you are officially at work. While interactions with family is inevitable, minimizing interruptions will allow you to stay focused and productive.
- Set a time when you go home. That’s right. Though your commute is literally only a few steps, unless your going to miss a non-negotiable deadline, it’s important for you to close the door to your work space, exit the building (metaphorically, and focus on your personal life for the remainder of the day.
- Block off time for your family and friends. As realtors, our working day does not conform to a regular 9-5, Monday to Friday time frame, as we’re available to our clients, and other realtors, when offers and time lines require attention. However, we do block off specific times to focus on our relationships with family and friends. We take turns hosting birthday parties, Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas Dinners, as well as July 1st celebrations and (in a group of A-type personalities) highly competitive games nights.
We’ve found that being Intentional about where, when, and how we focus our time and energy on work responsibilities and family relationships, has allowed us to find a good work/life balance that ensures we’re successful in both areas.
Sincerely,
The Rosts