Guest commentator: Spencer Gunkle, Salesforce Application Administrator, WSFS Bank

In my early professional career, I have worked both hybrid and fully remote schedules. Below, I have mapped out some tips that have helped me stay productive and sane during my workday at home.

Start the Day Off Right

Taking my commute time to zero gives me a lot more time in the morning, but it’s easy to lose this time to the snooze button. A little extra sleep is important, but sticking to a morning routine has really helped me start the day right. Take this time to get in a good headspace before you start your day. My routine is as simple as going for a morning walk, showering, eating a good breakfast, and making a coffee. This stress-free routine allows me to gather my thoughts and gives me energy for the day.

Create the Right Work Environment

One of the many advantages of working from home is you get to create your own work setup. Some things I look for in creating a good working environment are finding a place that has good natural light, is comfortable, and has limited distractions. I personally have multiple spots in my apartment that I like to switch between to keep the day fresh. Another thing you can do for your setup is add some popular accessories; these could include a standing desk, laptop stand, real or fake plants, or a charging dock for your devices. My personal favorite accessory in my home setup is the portable monitor. This accessory allows me to have dual screens wherever I go in my apartment. If your home setup is looking like it needs some love, take some time and freshen it up.

Collaborate Virtually

When working from home, it’s easy to sit in one place and work the day away. Creating and maintaining good relationships when working remotely can be difficult, but making the extra effort can go a long way in building strong connections. For example, during the week, I like to find some time to have a video call with my coworkers. This gives us time to catch up on work-related things and our personal lives.

Working from home is not a perfect science, but hopefully, some of these tips can help improve your everyday work experience!