Reality is starting to set in for many that the work from home scenario might be for more than just a few weeks. Many of you might be working from unconventional spaces and trying to get used to this new normal. While others, have been pros at working from home for years. So, we reached out to those advisors for their tips on working from home in hopes they can shed light on how to make this new normal a little better and help you as you navigate your new situations.
Here are 7 tips from travel advisors on working from home:
1. Do Set a Routine
“Definitely incorporate a routine everyday to not get into a slump,” says Deaidra Pernell, franchise owner for Cruise Planners, “Take breaks, walk outside for lunch, and stretch. Enjoy the luxury of being home.”
2. Do Give Yourself a Dedicated Space & Time
“Set aside a dedicated space for your office and set your hours that you are available and be there,” says Lori Tedrick, travel advisor with Transat Travel, Agent at Home. “If you are not busy during that time frame, then focus that time on online education opportunities.”
3. Don’t be Lazy
Just because your bookings might have slowed down for the moment, it doesn’t mean you should take time off. “Don’t get lazy,” says Yvonne Marie of Bucket List Travel Company. “Do the trainings and find your niche.”
4. Do Take Breaks
Don’t let yourself fall into a vortex that’s all about work. Give your brain a rest, too. “Don’t forget to get up and take walks,” says travel advisor Laura Clark, “even if it’s just around your house.”
5. Don’t Stay in Your Jammies
Working from home doesn’t have to equal working in your PJs all day. Changing your outfit gives your brain the signal that you’re starting a new task, even if that outfit is leggings our loungewear. “Don’t work in your PJ’s,” adds folashade Otuyelu of Boundless Travel. “Get up and shower and dress in other clothing even if just sweats. It puts you in a different frame of mind.”
6. Do Create a Daily Plan
“Create a daily plan/list and place it in a visible spot in your home office space,” says a travel advisor with Honeymoons & Beyond. “Check off each item as you complete the task. You will have a sense of accomplishment as you work on your list throughout the day and see those check marks adding up.” Donna Greenspan of Travel Quest Travel agrees, “Try to keep a schedule. Make lists. These days of constant cancellations you have to keep track.”
7. Do Enjoy the Freedom of Working From Home
“Take the opportunity of not having many interruptions,” says travel advisor Lily Inspira. “Focus on priorities and you will have more time for personal enjoyment.”
For more tips to help you during this time, check out “Don’t Forget to Take a Little #MeTime,” “11 Tips from Travel Advisors During this ‘Down Time,’” and “How to Communicate with Your Clients Now.”
