As summer approaches, it seems as though most of us will be working from home (or will at least have the option to work from home) for the sunniest months of the year. I’ve been working from home since mid-March, and although it hasn’t been the easiest transition, I feel like I’ve finally figured out a routine that works for me. But while being productive outside of the office is one thing, remaining focused and productive during the summer — a time when we’re usually spending much of our free time outdoors — is an entirely different challenge. If the idea of spending the next few months at a desk inside your home is filling you with dread, don’t worry; I’ve put together a list of a few ways you can make the most of your WFH summer.
- Set up a summer workspace
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Of course, we’d all prefer to be outside soaking up the sun — but you can still catch some rays from the comfort of your workspace! For maximum summer vibes, set up your desk near a window and open the curtains to make the most of the natural light. You’ll likely find yourself feeling more energized and productive, too!
Better yet, consider working outside if you have the opportunity. I’ve been working on my porch for a least a few hours each day, and I think it’s made a huge difference in my mood and productivity. If your work is portable, you can even set up a blanket in the grass and have a work picnic. Bonus points if you can work by a pool!
- Play a summer WFH playlist
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It’s no secret that listening to music is one of the best ways to get yourself in a particular headspace. Luckily, there are plenty of productivity-friendly playlists out there to help you make the most of working from home this summer! Here are a few you can check out on Spotify:
Beach Music: Chillout Lounge, Deep Tropical, Stress Relief, Happy Summer, Relaxing Vibes
- Summer-ify your breaks
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When you’re working from home, remembering to take regular breaks is more important than ever. I try to take a snack or stretch break at least every couple of hours, but sometimes I get so lost in my desire to finish a particular task that I completely forget. Luckily, the nice summer weather means you can take your breaks to the next level by enjoying them outside! For example, instead of walking around your room to stretch your muscles, consider taking a brisk walk outside.
For a tastier way to summer-ify your work breaks, be sure to stock up on fresh fruit, popsicles, and other fun summer treats. You can trade your coffee breaks for smoothie breaks — or, if you’re as addicted to caffeine as I am, make a coffee smoothie!
- Attend (or organize) virtual happy hours
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Personally, one of my favorite things about working in an office is spending time with my coworkers. Sure, my cat makes for great company at home, but it’s just not the same as grabbing lunch with my work bestie!
One way you can bring office bonding home this summer is via virtual happy hours. If your team isn’t already hosting them, take the initiative to organize one yourself; don’t worry, it’s easier than it sounds! Just pick a theme and have everyone coordinate their outfits, drinks, and Zoom backgrounds to it. For example, if your theme is a summer getaway, you can wear a tropical romper, drink a home-made mimosa, and use a beachy-keen Zoom background!
- Put a summer twist on your WFH wardrobe
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I’ll be the first to admit that I don’t exactly dress to the nines when working from home. But I do change out of my pajamas and into some semi-presentable loungewear (…usually). Fashion can have a huge impact on your mindset, so why not bring the summer vibes to your wardrobe as well?
Now that summer is almost here, I’ll be changing into clothes that are as beach-ready as they can be while still being WFH-appropriate. I’m talking floral tops, tropical rompers, hair scarves… pretty much anything that you could wear to the beach, but also on a Zoom call with your boss (and if you don’t have regular Zoom calls, feel free to work by the pool in a bathing suit — whatever gets you in the right mindset is valid!).
Even if you’ve adjusted to working from home over the past couple of months, it’s completely normal to have mixed emotions about working from home over the summer. Keep the above tips in mind, and just remember that this is temporary — we’ll be back to having summer fun with our friends before we know it! In the meantime, if you have any other tips or questions about your WFH summer, feel free to connect with me on Instagram.