Actionable Tips for Working from Home

Working from home tips: Montrose Apartment

I definitely have a non-traditional job, having created my own niche as a sports + travel + fitness writer as well as corporate copywriter and micro-influencer (no wonder my parents have a hard time understanding what I do), but with that comes the opportunity (and distraction) of working from home.

It’s been a daily struggle for me (going on eight years now) working from home, so I thought the New Year was the perfect time to share some personal tips working from home and how to excel, even if it’s from the comforts of your couch. Because we all know, I love my couch.

If you have the option, choose a house or apartment that is conducive to working from home. I have a one-bedroom at Encore Montrose, but I choose a floor plan with a tiny little nook tucked away in the bedroom that was the perfect office space. Plus, it overlooked the courtyard’s bright flower wall, which was a huge seller for me. Obviously I’d prefer a two-bedroom, but it wasn’t necessary, nor was it in my budget, so the little office nook was more than enough.

Along with choosing the right floor plan (I’m not saying move just for a nook, obvi), I love that my Montrose apartments have a brand-new Conference Room, where I’m able to work when I’m on deadline. In fact, I’ve already had a few friends come over for “co-working days,” which allows me to knock “work harder” and “spend more time with friends” off my New Year’s resolution list all at once. There’s complimentary Wi-Fi, a huge conference table, a latte bar and more.

One of my top tips first thing in the morning is to give myself some time to spend with my dog, do household chores (i.e. empty the dishwasher) and enjoy my coffee. I don’t jump right into work. I also make a reasonable to-do list, and sometimes it may just have one pressing item on it. My to-do list usually has 30-40 pressing items, but being realistic and tackling a few key things works best for me.

Change it up. Once a week, schedule a co-working date with a friend (who also has stuff to get done, not just an excuse to catch up on gossip and boys) or check out a new, local coffee shop. For me, changing the scenery really helps boost my creativity, so it’s something I try to do often.

Along with changing it up, have a go-to reliable spot when you’re on serious deadline or having writer’s block or lack of motivation. For me, that’s the Starbucks by the Galleria. Not sure why the vibe and familiarity there works for me, but it does. I’m not tempted to leave early or walk around the area, I just go and get my work done and leave.

One tip I often hear is to set “working hours” from your home office. While I don’t, I do try to stop working by 6p at the latest, because it takes me a few hours to clear my mind, so I don’t want to get in bed thinking of past-due articles or needy clients. That’s the worst.

Creating a daily work schedule is often helpful, but I’ll be honest – only sometimes. For instance, scheduling breaks to make personal calls or walking the dog if it’s nice out is great, but if I get stuck and need an extra break or if I’m really into whatever I’m doing, I’ll keep going. I like heading to the leasing office and chatting with them – they are always so fun and friendly and it’s a quick and easy walk from my apartment. Black Hole Coffee House is one of Montrose’s best coffee shops and it’s right next door, so that’s another easy, quick break for me during the work day.

For me, the key to working from home is staying flexible. One of the benefits of working for myself and working from home is that I have that flexibility. A friend gets off work early wants to hit up happy hour – I’m game! I’m in a creative rut and want to get in a workout – let’s do it! But that’s the double-edged sword working from home – the flexibility needs to be in moderation. If friends call me every day for a 3p happy hour, I can’t go all the time. Or can I?

Montrose Houston Apartments Offer Champagne Tours

This is part of a sponsored blog series with Encore Montrose. Did you know you can ask for the “champagne tour” while touring these brand-new Montrose Houston apartments? Champagne makes everything better, especially when it comes to moving and a yearlong commitment. Encore Montrose is currently offering major leasing specials, including look and lease gift cards and a few weeks free rent, so don’t miss out. Shoot me an email if you’re interested in touring or stop by Encore Montrose (4508 Graustark Street) and tell them Jayme (or The Blonde Side) sent you! Cheers to your new Montrose home!