Working from home isn't anything new. But it has become kind of a new normal since the COVID-19 pandemic. And some of us made many mistakes we wish we hadn't.

The Bed Isn't for Working

Historically, the bed provides a safe space to sleep and be intimate with your partner. Today, it's a multifunctional utility for doing many modern things. You might Netflix and chill, scroll through your tablet, or work on your laptop. But while a bed is comfy, it isn't the best place for working. The limited positions you can get into with a laptop when working will cause more harm than good because it doesn't provide the necessary support that office furniture does. A poorly set up workstation, like your bed, can cause RSI-related injuries to your back, spine and neck.

A Separate Area is Essential

Like your bed, working somewhere in your home that isn't suitable can be bad for you. For example, the majority of new remote workers use the kitchen table with their laptops for work. However, kitchen tables aren't designed for long-term use, and the chairs are utterly unsuitable because they aren't ergonomic. Additionally, many distractions exist in a family-used room, including the family. Therefore, a separate space is necessary if you want to get work done correctly. You need no TV, no disruptions and adequate and flexible space.

Dress for Success Working From Home

You've heard of fake it 'til you make it, right? Well, there's another phrase you will have come to appreciate as a remote worker; dress for success. Working from home offers many advantages. One of which is dressing however you like. So it's tempting to sit in your slacks and favourite hoodie while (incoming 90s reference) writing TPS reports for Bill Lumbergh. However, studies have found that dressing well at work or home increases performance and engagement. Additionally, you will get more respect and appreciation for coworkers, even if it is on Zoom.

Faster Internet is a Massive Help

Before you began working from home, you probably thought your internet speed was fine. Then you had your first remote meeting on Skype. There were image issues, freezing, and delayed audio. But it's just teething problems, you told yourself. Then comes the next meeting, and the same happens again. On top of that, your finished projects take, like, nine days to upload to your company servers via a secure connection. Then you realize that maybe there's something wrong with your internet connection. And your friendly techie confirms that you need to upgrade.

You Must be the Boss to be Your Own Boss

Being your own boss is a dream for many people. Some like the freedom of choice, while others just don't like being told what to do. This is great when you run your own business, or you're a freelancer. However, working from home offers some of the same freedoms in stark contrast to the 9 to 5 office system. Yet, for all the advantages, you can't slack off just because no one is watching. You are given a huge responsibility to be responsible for yourself. Of course, you can get up a little later. But you still need a schedule, project plans and reasonable breaks.

Summary

It's been a strange couple of years working from home. Some things you might have realized are that your bed isn't a desk, you need to dress for work, and you are responsible for yourself.