Telecommuting – Avoiding Bad Habits

Telecommuting – Avoiding Bad Habits

written by: Victoria E • edited by: Jean Scheid • updated: 5/11/2012

Telecommuters, consultants, and freelancers all face the same temptations - the trick is to be aware of these temptations and develop good habits instead. Set yourself up for success by heading off these habits, and starting your own positive, productive and motivating habits instead!

• Having the opportunity to work remotely, whether as a freelancer, a consultant, or as a telecommuter, workers all face the same temptations when working from home. In order to have a successfultelecommuting experience, it is important to be aware of these temptations and strive to develop good habits when telecommuting and beware of overindulgences.

  Here is a list of the most commonly encountered areas of concern.

  Actually working too hard - burn out – Make sure you're taking enough breaks and don't turn into a workaholic because work is always there or you are always at work. Begin and end the workday in a timely manner. Schedule a few breaks throughout the workday. On the other hand, don't develop bad work habits and do less work than before. As mentioned in the article, Telecommuting – setting up for success, make sure you have an official start and stop to your work day.

  Procrastinating – For self starters and the self motivated, not usually a recurring problem, but for those who struggle with delivering work on time, it could be detrimental to your telecommuting career.

  Snacking too often – This one is easy to fall into. However, instead of trying to steer clear of the kitchen, make a thermos of coffee or tea and bring it to your office, and bring with you a bowl of grapes, or a plate of apples and cheese. You can nibble and work, and never worry about cookie guilt.

  Sleeping late – You must stay on a routine, as mentioned in the article, Telecommuting – setting up for success, use a routine to get you up, not just the need to go to work, for example, start the day with a bike ride, a workout, a trip to the gym, a drive to the coffee shop for a special telecommuting latte.