We all wait for the summer months to arrive so we can bask in the British sun and get our moneys worth out of the deck chairs that spend most of their time stuffed into the garage. However, the reality is often really different when you’re stuck behind a desk for seven hours a day – even when you’re working from home. That is why I’ve compiled a list of top tips that will help you to enjoy the sun and warm weather whilst still ticking off all of your to-do list.
Tip #1 – Make the most of your lunch break
As tempting as it is to make a quick lunch and collapse onto the couch with Netflix during your lunch break, or worse, skip your lunch break altogether, it’s one of the best times to get outside and enjoy the weather.
So prepare your lunch in advance, or prep something quick before grabbing your trainers and walking socks and heading out for a brisk lunchtime walk. This will allow you to bask in the beauty of the Great British weather whilst simultaneously getting some physical activity into your daily routine.
Tip #2 – Work outside
Ultimately, the best way to enjoy the sunshine when you’re working from home is to combine the two together. If you can work using a laptop, just move your office outside for the day. This could be in your garden, on a flat balcony, or even in the local park.
Lots of outdoor spaces have free wifi, especially if you can situate yourself near a cafe. Alternatively, use your mobile phone as a data point for your laptop. This is a great way to soak up some Vitamin D, and reduce your sunshine FOMO.
If you’re worried about screen glare, you can use this helpful hack guide that shows you how to create a DIY Laptop Sun Shade using household items, or alternatively set yourself up under a parasol such as this beautiful option from Lakeland Furniture.
Tip #3 – Work near a window
Sometimes, your day is just too jam packed with meetings and deadlines to get outdoors. If this happens, the best thing to do is make sure you’re working near a window so that you can still enjoy some sunlight exposure without disrupting your daily routine.
Research shows that people who sit in close proximity to a window are more likely to find creative solutions to problems at work, whilst also experiencing better sleep patterns than colleagues who sat away from their windows.
Plus, you can often feel the heat of the sun through your window, so grab your favourite summer outfit and your sunglasses, and settle in for a bright, sunny and productive day working from home.
Whilst it may not be possible to head to the beach during your working day (unless you’re feeling brave with your mobile data!), it’s certainly possible to add some extra sunlight to your daily routine, brightening up your work day.
Tip #4 – Make the most of residual income
Sometimes the best advice I can give is to take a break and just enjoy the rare moments of sunshine. This however can be easier said than done when you’re worrying about paying the bills. With a little bit of hard work you can look at ways in which you can earn money without working (technically). For example I am registered as a mystery shopper which means I get paid to review food in restaurants. I also use affiliate links so when someone reading clicks to buy a toy I have recommended then I am earning money. Emma from make money without a job has a whole blog full of ideas to explore – work SMART not hard!