Working From Home Isn’t Working. Here’s What I’m Doing Now

Entrepreneurialism

Jun 12

I left my beloved studio office in late 2023. While it was a hard decision, it wasn’t one I regret. (Here’s why I left.)

Over the past year, I’ve tried working from home, but it just isn’t working. I’m used to home being a relaxing space, and I have a hard time sitting at my computer if there’s housework to be done.

In Atomic Habits, author James Clear calls this mixing contexts, and advises against it.

3 Things I’m Doing Wrong, According to Atomic Habits →

Why You Shouldn’t Work Just Anywhere →

For example, when I work in my living room, it takes on the context of office. Work energy begins mixing with relaxed energy, so when I am done working, I’ve been having a hard time unwinding in my living room. I feel like I should be doing something.

I do have a home office, but it doesn’t have the most comfortable set-up. Nothing beats my living room couch in terms of comfort, which is why I usually land there.

Until I have my desk situation sorted out and can find a way to make my home office irresistible, I’ve needed an alternative solution. One that doesn’t involve renting another space.

Working outside of my home…for free

Many WFHers spend hours at their local coffee shop, but in my small town, that turns into social catch-up rather than productivity.

I’m also very cheap when it comes to eating out; it’s not one of my values categories.

Instead, I wanted to find a place I could work with few interruptions - and not have to pay rent or buy something to be there.

Then it clicked.

I took on a super part-time job

My friend, Paige owns a clothing boutique where I’ve filled in when she can’t be there. I reached out to her about working a consistent day each week, and she was thrilled! I bring my laptop and accomplish quite a bit in between customers, including writing this blog post.

It also meets my need for connection. Working from home can feel isolating, and I appreciate having the opportunity to chat with customers. My grandmother also has a tendency to pop in!

Our deliveries also tend to happen on the days I work, and I love the unboxing. It’s exciting to see the new inventory before it goes out, and because Paige has asked me take pictures of the process, I’m playing with my creativity too. My business originally offered photography, and I’ve enjoyed getting back into it in a low stakes way.

Another opportunity presented itself

A few weeks after starting my regular shifts at Eastern Styles, I began teaching the mobility and stability (MOBS) class at Studium Fitness, where I’m also a member.

Beth, the owner, soon asked if I’d be willing to take on some hours at their front desk. Which has turned into another opportunity for focused work time in between checking students into their classes and meeting with potential members.

Since leaving my studio office, I’ve never been able to achieve this level of productivity. I no longer feel behind in my work and my home can be just that again.

Getting creative

Many businesses don’t need a location. While I loved my studio office, I now have less to maintain and am saving so much money without it. This has allowed me to pay myself more and build up my business’ emergency fund.

Getting creative with your business structure and ways to minimize your expenses alleviates so much pressure on your business, especially if you’re just starting out.

Your Business Doesn’t Have to Reach Its Full Potential →

Note: If you decide to do business work at your part-time job (or even full-time job), your tasks at that job take priority. I only do business work when I’ve completed the to do list for my job, and in between customers.

Need help narrowing in on your values, ideal day, and business vision? Enroll in Self-Employed School! This self-guided online course will also help you determine what you should hire out or do yourself.

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