For someone who worked as a virtual assistant for years, I thought I would share some wisdom on how to keep up with your work while being surrounded by the comforts of home.

1. Get up and get ready! Do what you would do on any given workday! So, what does that look like? Get coffee, breakfast, get a shower, get dressed, feed the dog, exercise etc. Whatever you normally do – do it. It is very easy and a fast-slippery slope to say “Woohoo I’m at home! Time to spend all day in my jammies and binge Netflix!” It will trap you so fast! Now that doesn’t mean you can’t be comfortable but don’t get in the routine of not keeping a routine.
2. Don’t think you can work and watch TV. It will become a quick distraction. Like I said, I’ve done this for years and I’m speaking from lessons I’ve learned. How do you work in your normal office? Music? Quiet? White Noise? Continue with what you are use to. If you do just need noise, I would suggest music or a podcast.
3. Stay off social media during work time unless you are using it as a tool. This too can be a huge distraction.
4. Take breaks. Get up, take a walk, eat lunch or a snack but walk away. Get some fresh air. Don’t sit all day, that will get old after a few days.
5. Make a designated work space. This makes it easier to treat your time at home when working seem more like work. Plus if you have children, you can have some separation between work time and family time.

My husband travels around 250 days a year so I understand working from home can be isolating. If you are home alone and now working from home here are some things to keep in mind.

1. Stay connected! And by this, I mean more than thru social media posting or a text message. Make phone calls, hear people’s voices, video chat. This is where technology is such a huge blessing!! We have the capability to at least see each other’s smiling faces. My husband and I make it a habit of video chatting every morning and every evening when he travels. We have even video chatting during dinner just to “be together”. Gather virtually with friends as you eat your dinner! It helps!
2. I can’t emphasize enough how important it is to stay connected. If you are having trouble with the stay at home rule and live alone reach out! Don’t stay isolated! The bible says the enemy comes to kill, steal and destroy. (John 10:10) He can try and destroy you by keeping you isolated. The enemy loves to use isolation as a weapon but we know the Lord will not let this prosper! (Isaiah 54:17) Stay connected and reach out if you have a need or need to have conversation! Never think “oh, their busy” or “I don’t want to be a bother” please, reach out to those in your sphere.

I hope through my experience this helps all of you just a little bit. Praying for everyone during this new normal!