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Inspiration

Three tips for success

while working from home

he majority of ISOs and merchant level sales- out the door. Even though you won't have to leave the
people are highly motivated and self-disci- premises, having a before-work routine will help you
plined professionals. Some have been working prepare mentally to tackle your workday. Showering and
T on their own for years. The novel coronavirus putting on the clothes you'd usually wear to the office isn't
has thrust others into working from home for the first required if nobody will see you in person, but it might be
time. a good idea to do it anyway to prepare yourself mentally
and boost your energy for the hours ahead.
Numerous people new to working solo are embracing such
perks as not having to commute or being able to spend Or you might want to take a brisk walk around the block
all day in their pajamas if they so choose. Others feel before you enter your office even though all you have
somewhat isolated, missing daily, in-person interaction to do to get to work is walk down the hall. The specific
with peers. Many parents face the dual challenge of actions are up to you, but defining them and sticking with
carving out space for a home office while also home- them for the most part will help you focus. To increase
schooling their children. efficiency, you can also schedule blocks for different tasks
during the day, realizing sometimes these will have to
Given the unprecedented situation we find ourselves in, change as unexpected issues and events arise.
here are some ideas on how to make working from home
as productive and positive as possible. 3. Schedule breaks, preferably outdoors

1. Set clear limits with family and co-workers It's essential that you take at least a morning and afternoon
break, as well as an adequate lunch period. During these
Establish a set of ground rules for family and friends so times, disengage from your computer screen and phone.
they'll understand the importance of respecting your No matter how busy you are, don't shortchange yourself
needs. If you live alone, you won't have anyone underfoot, on this. And whenever possible, take your breaks outside
but you might need to set limits with folks who expect so you can enjoy fresh air and sunshine. You'll return to
you to drop everything during the workday to text, chat, the tasks at hand much fresher and be more productive as
email or video conference with them. Setting regular a result.
work hours and telling your inner circle what the hours
are, for example, will go a long way toward ensuring their Whatever parameters you set up, remember that a
cooperation so you can fulfill your professional duties. modicum of flexibility works wonders, too.
Impressing upon them the importance of not expecting
you to address household matters during your work hours
is essential.

2. Establish a routine
Establishing a routine is another must, starting with
before you begin work each morning. When you commute Kate Gillespie, President and CEO
to the job, you do a number of things before heading
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