It is Spring Break. In my youth this term meant crazy trips to the beach and sleeping in late. As a work from home mom, it means a new variation to juggling work, kids and life. I have always made working remotely part of my routine with a weekly day at my second office, the always friendly and quaint Fallbrook Coffee Shop…think Cheers but with hot tea instead of beer. However when the kids are off school, I take it to a new level. I find cool day camps and work next to them. Benefits of this strategy?
-Opens up more opportunities for the kids
–Gives me a ‘break’ by changing my environment and meeting new people
-I get lunch with my littles! I am nearby so I can make this happen. Today I had lunch in front of the Children’s Museum in San Diego with beautiful views of the bay and lunchtime snuggles with my kids. Can’t beat that.
–Break away from interruptions. I love using this time to write, note two blog posts in one day here. There is no phone or laundry remotely.
Now a days, free wi-fi is easy to find so expand your and your kids horizons productively with these tips.
–Pick your place ahead of time. Don’t assume it will be easy. There are options but you want your best option. A little research of coffee shops can make a big difference. It also allows you to find a cool new indie place unchartered before. I also have my chain favorites like Panera Bread, who always greet me with great healthy food and free wi-fi. It is also big enough that I don’t feel self-conscious for squatting there all day
–Tip well. You will be there all day. Be generous and people will be generous back
–Move if needed. If the place is packed during lunch, take a break or move to the bar. Be considerate of your real estate.
–Create an agenda. Be sure to have a good size To Do List that is specific. Some times when I am out of my office, I can easily get distracted and get stuck on what to do next. Also refer to next tip for why that agenda is so important
–Have a plan. Be sure to upload all the assets you need to get your tasks complete. I use Basecamp. If I am worried about consistent wi-fi, I will use a flash drive. There is nothing worse than being on a roll only to get steam rolled by lack of assets. Be sure you have the log ins you need (hello RoboForm) , images, documents, etc.
Lastly take advantage of your location. Workers get breaks and you deserve one. Explore your surroundings. Window shop. Cruise the park. Try something new and maybe even exotic. Breathe the fresh air. Working remotely is one of the many advantages of being self-employed so make the most of it.
OK gotta go, off to take the kids to Seaport Village for ice cream and a merry go round ride.
What tips do you have for working remotely?