Worth Reading – How to Get More Comfortable Working Remotely and Actually Like It
There are some good tips in the article below, but as an experienced remote worker, I’d like to add my own two cents, because why not?
https://middleme.net/2025/07/25/how-to-get-more-comfortable-working-remotely-and-actually-like-it/
First, yes, you need to create a comfortable workspace. The days are long, and while working from a coffee shop or some other location is fun, it’s not always comfortable, and you will end up not doing it as often as you think you are.
Second, let me add some of my favorite tips for this one:
Move More Than You Think You Should
I got an adjustable standing desk years ago. If you can manage it, get one. If you don’t consciously decide to move, you will end up sitting for long periods. I try to use my standing desk for part of the day. One definite recommendation, if you’re presenting in a virtual meeting, stand up. You naturally speak with more energy when you’re standing and allowing your body language to guide your vocal tone.
A quality adjustable desk can be a significant investment, but if you’re going to be working from home permanently, it’s worth it.
It’s also helpful to take a walk or take a break for a little in-house workout if that’s available to you. If you can schedule your day around those activities, great. More on scheduling your day below.
The one tip provided in the article above that I take slight issue with is this one:
Don’t Let Work Steal Your Evenings
Understand, this is good advice. I’m not arguing about the necessity of getting out of work mode. I would add one caveat, though. Do what works for you. For example, I know there are plenty of people who work hard all day, shut down their laptops at 5, step out of their office, and they’re done.
That works for them.
I’m not a massive fan of that because my hobbies and work are somewhat intertwined. For example, my job requires staying up-to-date with the latest changes and new features in technology. I also write about those changes on my blog and even in my M365 newsletter.
If I do that in the evening, is that work or personal time? It’s both, honestly. Because of that, I don’t always feel the need to be at my laptop from 8:00 to 5:00 each day. I’ll take 20 minutes for a quick Supernatural workout. I’ll spend some time posting to social media, texting a friend, or slowly enjoying a cup of coffee in the morning. I’m always available during the day, and my phone is with me so that I can be reached immediately should anyone need something.
Of course, I spend part of my evening doing the research that is part of my job, so it all evens out in the end. It’s likely it more than evens out for my employer, if I’m honest. The line I draw is that I stop doing work tasks in the evening. I’m not composing emails, running reports, etc. That happens during the day only. That’s my line between work and personal time.
That wouldn’t work for everyone. I am likely very much in the minority in working this way. That’s OK. My point is that remote work should be flexible. Find what works for you that allows you to meet the job requirements and provides balance to your days. That’s the whole point.
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