The Art of Self-Discipline: Can You Thrive While Working from Home?

Evaluating Your Suitability for Remote Work

Before you consider transitioning to a remote work setup, ask yourself the following questions:

• Can I resist distractions such as the television, the refrigerator, or the allure of a sunny day in the garden?
• Am I organized enough to work without supervision and keep track of pending tasks and deadlines?
• Am I a procrastinator, or am I self-motivated? Can I complete tasks effectively and on time?
• Do I possess strong time-management skills?
• Can I work in isolation, or would I miss the daily interaction with colleagues in a traditional office environment? Would I be tempted to make excessive personal phone calls just to feel connected?
• Can I set goals and adhere to them?

The much-vaunted 'freedom' of working from home is counterbalanced by responsibilities. Many remote workers have discovered that establishing a routine helps them stay focused and productive.

Establishing a Productive Routine

Here are some tips to help you establish a productive routine:

• Dress up for work: Working in your pajamas can make you feel too relaxed and unmotivated.
• Set regular office hours: Start and stop working at the same time every day. Remote workers often fall into the trap of working round the clock since the "office" is just a few steps away.
• Develop established work routines: For instance, you may decide to handle tedious administrative tasks every Friday afternoon. Routines help you complete work that you might otherwise be tempted to postpone.
• Create self-imposed deadlines and stick to them: Even if you're self-employed, setting deadlines helps keep you on track and continuously working towards your goals.

These are just a few factors to consider before opting for remote work. Ultimately, only you can decide if it's the right choice for you.

For more insights on remote work, check out this article from Forbes, and this guide from Business News Daily.