Work From Home Traps: How to avoid them

Working from home as an artist may seem like a dream come true, but it can also be stressful and overwhelming.

I started working from home when my second son was born, right before the pandemic, and over the years my work/home balance was under challenges. I often found myself getting sidetracked by new art-business-related information and working long hours, including past midnight. My computer was always on, blurring the line between work and personal life. Does that sound familiar?

While working from home has its conveniences, it's essential to create boundaries for a smoother work/life balance.

Here are some common work-from-home traps and tips to avoid them: Trap 1: Overwhelming Information

With easy access to information, it's tempting to keep searching for more, but it can also be distracting and stressful. To avoid information overload:

• Limit your social media use to platforms that genuinely benefit your business.

• Keep your phone away from your bedroom to avoid temptation.

• Be mindful of the time spent creating content and focus on what brings the most value to your business.

Trap 2: Working All Day Long

The flexibility of working from home can blur the line between work and personal life. To establish a healthy work-life balance:

• Plan and schedule breaks, meals, and days off.

• Turn off your computer at the end of the workday.

• Prioritize what matters most and have a reminder of your values nearby.

Trap 3: Feeling Like You Haven't Accomplished Enough

As an artist, it's easy to fall into the trap of comparing yourself to others and feeling like you're not doing enough. To overcome this mindset:

• Avoid comparing yourself to others, especially on social media.

• Write down all your achievements and accomplishments to remind yourself of what you've accomplished.

• Create a personal mantra or affirmation that brings you peace for example “Done is better than perfect”. In conclusion, if you're feeling burnt out or stressed, take a break and rest. Setting boundaries may take time and effort, but with patience and clear goals, you can achieve a healthy work-life balance and enjoy the benefits of working from home as an artist.

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