With the weather turning warmer, it's time to get outside and soak up the sunshine! That daily dose of Vitamin D is a surefire way to improve your mood and mental health. But have you ever considered moving your at-home office outside so you can break up the monotony and enjoy the outdoors all day long?
Before you charge out the door, take a moment to consider everything you will need to maximize your time and productivity out there. Follow these tips on how to give Work From Home: Outdoor Edition a shot!
The power of Wi-Fi and outlets. This one is a no-brainer. In order to connect to the Internet and access everything needed for work, you will need a strong signal. Try moving your router to a more ideal location so you can connect to the Internet even from outside.
You will also want a charging station to keep your devices juiced up and ready to take on those Zoom conferences. If there's no nearby power outlet, consider using an extension cord or investing in a portable power bank.
Fine furnishings. Skip the chaise and stick with a supportive, upright chair that will help you maintain your posture and focus. Find a table around the same height as your desk. Balcony desks are a thing! They can be mounted to any railing and will not break the bank.
When shopping for furniture, opt for something durable and weather-resistant so you can be prepared for anything and don't have to pack up shop every time it looks like rain.
Made in the shade. We've all been there: squinting and covering our phone screens with a hand to better view them in the harsh sunlight. So be sure to set up your outdoor office under the shade of an umbrella, a tree, or a pergola, so that you won't be stuck struggling to see. The shade will keep both you and your laptop from overheating.
You could also look into buying a laptop canopy, which was made specifically to prevent glare while working outside. The fact that it looks like your laptop is about to set off on a camping trip is an added bonus and may be a fun talking point in your next meeting.
Stay safe and hydrated! Bring along a cool canister of water and sip it throughout the day. Protecting your skin is a must so apply plenty of sunscreen or have a brimmed hat on hand. Safety first!
Keep cool and comfortable! Come prepared for changes in temperature. If it's the dead of summer, bring a fan to stay cool. If you're in the throes of an unpredictable spring, keep an umbrella nearby. Or if it's the fluctuating fall, have a throw blanket so you can easily warm up if need be.
If bugs are an issue, arm yourself with bug repellant so you won't be batting away gnats and mosquitos all day long while trying to focus. Finally, if you are a brave soul who suffers from seasonal allergies, yet still wish to brave the outdoors...don't forget to take your medication!
Remember to stop and smell the roses--or at least appreciate being outside. Pause from your work every so often and admire your surroundings. Take a deep breath of that fresh air. Listen to the birdsong and feel the soft breeze on your skin.
Take a moment to truly connect with nature...then get back to work! You'll find that your focus has improved thanks to taking the time to relax and reset.
Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments!