What I Wish I Knew Before Going Fully Remote

Hey there, it’s Samira. When I first made the leap into remote work, I thought it would be all yoga pants and productivity. And yes, it can be that dreamy—but only if you build some structure into the freedom. Over the years, I’ve picked up hard-earned lessons (read: trial and error) that turned my work-from-home setup from a hot mess into a well-oiled machine.

Let me walk you through what actually works. No fluff, no vague advice—just real strategies that help you get more done, feel less stressed, and still have time for a life.

Build a Workspace That Works for You

Let me hit you with a wild-but-true stat: as stated in Harvard Business Review, simply getting more natural light in your workspace can lead to a 51% drop in eyestrain, a 63% dip in headaches, and a 56% decrease in drowsiness. That’s not just nice to have—that’s game-changing.

And honestly? I’ve lived this. The moment I moved my desk closer to a sunny window, it was like someone turned the lights on in my brain. Creating a space that works for you isn’t just about where you plop your laptop. It’s about building an environment that actually works with you—keeping you sharp, comfortable, and feeling good while you do your thing. After a lot of trial and error (and one regrettable week of working from the couch), I can tell you: it’s 100% worth dialing this in.

1. Set Yourself Up for Focus

When I started remote work, my "desk" was the kitchen table. Not great. Distractions were everywhere—snacks, dishes, roommates. Once I carved out a dedicated nook with natural light and minimal noise, my focus skyrocketed. Choose a space that supports deep work, not deep distractions.

📍 Checkpoint #1: Studies show that working near a window can boost productivity by up to 16%.

2. Make It Yours

Add things that make you smile: a plant, a candle, a framed photo of your dog in sunglasses. A space that reflects you can lift your mood and make sitting down to work feel less like a chore.

3. Think Ergonomics

Trust me—your back will thank you. I learned the hard way after a few months of hunching over my laptop. Now I use an adjustable chair, a desk at the right height, and a riser for my monitor. Comfort = longevity.

Lock In a Daily Routine (That Actually Feels Good)

Having a flexible schedule is great—until it turns into chaos. A consistent routine can anchor your day and help you stay balanced, motivated, and productive without burning out.

1. Keep a Set Schedule

One perk of remote work? Flexibility. But that can backfire if you don’t set boundaries. I wake up, get dressed (even if it's just upgraded loungewear), and start work at the same time each day. It keeps me in rhythm.

📍 Checkpoint #2: Remote workers with consistent start times report 24% higher job satisfaction.

2. Dress the Part

Not saying you need to put on heels, but changing out of pajamas does help me shift into work mode. It’s a tiny mindset trick that sets the tone.

3. Start With a Game Plan

Before diving into emails, I jot down my top 3 priorities. That simple habit keeps my day from spiraling into chaos.

Be the Boss of Your Time

Time can slip through your fingers fast if you’re not careful. Here’s how to take charge of your hours so your to-do list doesn’t take charge of you:

1. Lean on Tech

Apps like Todoist, Trello, and Google Calendar are lifesavers. I block time for focused work, meetings, and even lunch. If it’s not scheduled, it doesn’t happen.

2. Try Time Strategies

I swear by the Pomodoro Technique—25 minutes on, 5 minutes off. Those sprints keep me sharp and help me avoid burnout.

3. Set Weekly Goals

Every Monday, I write down three big goals for the week. It keeps me aligned and motivated when things get busy.

📍 Checkpoint #3: People who set weekly goals are 2x more likely to hit their long-term targets.

Don’t Go It Alone

Just because you’re working remotely doesn’t mean you should feel isolated. Staying connected is key to collaboration, creativity, and not losing your mind.

1. Book Regular Touchpoints

When I first went remote, I felt... alone. Now I have weekly check-ins with my team, and monthly virtual coffees with peers. Staying in touch matters more than you think.

2. Use the Right Tools

Slack for quick chats. Zoom when you need face time. Google Docs when you’re co-writing that team report at 10 p.m. on a Thursday (no judgment). The tools themselves aren't magic—it's how and when you use them that makes the difference.

I learned the hard way that not everything needs to be a Zoom call (hello, calendar fatigue). Sometimes, a two-minute Slack message saves everyone a 30-minute meeting. Other times, hopping on a quick call clears up what would have taken five emails to untangle. Find the rhythm that works for your team, and don’t be afraid to set boundaries around communication, too. The right tools should make things easier—not noisier.

3. Build Connection

We started a "Friday Wins" thread on Slack where we celebrate small victories. It's cheesy. It's awesome. And it makes remote work feel more human.

Protect Your Time and Sanity

The lines between work and life blur fast when your office is also your living room. These tips help me protect my peace (and my evenings).

1. Set Boundaries

I had to learn how to say: "I'm off the clock." I shut my laptop at 6 PM and don’t check work stuff after. The world doesn’t end, and I get my evenings back.

“Close that laptop, flip the ‘off’ switch, grab a coffee, and let your evenings be yours again—because work can wait, but your sanity can’t!”

2. Take Real Breaks

A lunch break isn’t scrolling TikTok at your desk. Get up. Move. Breathe. A short walk or stretch resets your brain.

3. Have a Life Outside Work

I picked up watercolor painting. Not because I’m good at it, but because it reminds me I’m more than my inbox. Do something that’s just for you.

Get the Right Tech on Your Side

Having the right tools is half the battle. Here’s what to look for and how to make tech your ally instead of your stressor.

1. Invest in Quality

Don’t cheap out on your gear. A solid laptop, fast Wi-Fi, and a noise-canceling headset are non-negotiables in my book.

📍 Checkpoint #4: Upgrading to a second monitor can improve productivity by up to 30%.

2. Master Your Tools

Learn how to really use your apps—not just the basics. Watch a tutorial. Take a course. It’s worth the time.

3. Stay Curious

Tech changes fast. I make it a point to try a new app or feature each month. Keeps things fresh and my workflow sharp.

Keep Growing, Even From Home

Career growth doesn’t stop just because you’re not in an office. Staying sharp and curious keeps you ahead of the game.

1. Take Online Courses

I’ve done classes on everything from Excel shortcuts to storytelling for business. Sites like Coursera and LinkedIn Learning are gold mines.

2. Follow Industry Trends

Every Friday, I read a few newsletters and articles to stay current. You don’t have to binge-read—just skim and save what matters.

3. Ask for Feedback

I used to shy away from feedback. Now I ask my team what I can do better. It’s helped me level up faster than anything else.

Stay Healthy, Stay Sharp

You can’t pour from an empty cup. Keeping your mind and body in good shape is non-negotiable if you want to perform at your best.

1. Move Daily

Whether it’s a quick YouTube yoga session or dancing around while making coffee, moving my body boosts my energy and mood.

2. Practice Mindfulness

I take 5 minutes in the morning to just breathe. No phone. No to-do list. Just deep breaths. It grounds me.

3. Eat Like You Care

Remote work = constant kitchen access. I prep healthy snacks so I’m not just grazing all day. More fuel, fewer crashes.

Mindset Is Everything

Your mindset can make or break your remote experience. These mental shifts help me stay grounded, even when things get chaotic.

1. Think Growth

Remote work can be tough. But every challenge is a chance to grow. I remind myself that even bad days teach me something.

2. Practice Gratitude

I write down 3 things I’m grateful for at the end of each workday. It’s cheesy. It’s magic. Try it.

3. Be Realistic

Some days you’ll crush it. Some days, just showing up is enough. Give yourself grace and keep moving forward.

Final Thoughts From My Desk to Yours

Remote work isn’t a one-size-fits-all deal. But if you build a space that supports you, create boundaries that protect you, and stay curious and connected, you’ll thrive. I’m still figuring it out, too—but these tips have made all the difference.

So here’s to showing up, tuning in, and making remote work actually work for you.