Today, we have a guest post from Jill Hart, publisher of Christian Work at Home Ministries!
After nearly 15 years of working from home, I have come to realize that the very things that can make you successful can also hold you back: focus, drive, energy, health, attitude…they all matter. Together they push you forward with great force. As a work-at-home professional, often your ‘office’ environment consists of you and you alone. Therefore, you need to be sure you are providing an atmosphere in which you can thrive.
Think your attitude in your work-at-home office doesn’t matter? Think again. It is easy to get discouraged when working from home. We all have days where we’re stuck in a surly and unhappy mood. You are not alone in that one. Unfortunately, one’s attitude is reflected in everything you do. My assistant has often commented that she can tell when something is off with me or my attitude by my email messages. If my assistant can feel it, then surely my clients can feel it too. That also means my family can feel it, and that’s not good.
So, what’s a person to do when there is lots of work to do and a crazy-bad attitude looming over the office like a big ugly beast? Glad you asked! Here are a few things that have helped me get past my attitudes. I hope they help you too.
- Take a few moments out for yourself. Set a timer and do something not work-related and just chill. Personally, I like to stick my nose in the current book I’m reading. But that’s just me.
- Take a walk, whether it’s around the house, on the treadmill, or around the block. A little physical exercise activates your body’s natural endorphins, giving your mood that little extra boost you need.
- Surround yourself with positive people. There have been many times that either a phone call, instant message chat, or in-person visit with a positive friend or family member was exactly what the doctor ordered.
- Turn up the tunes and dance in your office for one song. You can spare ONE song, right? Don’t know how to dance? Just listen to music with a good message and enjoy! If your head bobs even a little to the beat, well, you’re dancing. Enjoy it!
- Pick up a handful of M&Ms, and for every one you pop in your mouth, think of or write down something you are thankful for. It doesn’t have to be candy. A friend of mine uses prayer beads.
Oftentimes, getting past your attitude and getting back to work involves taking a few moments out for yourself. Just remember, you are worth it. It will save relationships and possibly even clients down the line. The better your attitude, the more productive, focused, and creative you will be.
About the Author
Jill Hart is a writer, speaker, and coach showing others how to follow the calling God has placed on their lives. She teaches her clients how to overcome the fear of getting started and helps them discover ways to find success. She is the author of the new devotional book, Do Life Different. Learn more about Jill at www.jillhart.com
