Working from home? These tips will help you thrive
Mastering Remote Work: A Guide from Your Career Coaches
Working from home sounds like the ultimate dream—no commute, comfy clothes, and your favorite coffee mug. But when you’re navigating a disability or returning to the workforce after a break, that lack of structure can quickly shift from "freedom" to "chaos."
Don't panic. Transitions are intimidating, but they are exactly what we do best at Advocations. Whether you are managing a chronic condition, balancing mental health, or finding your footing in a new role, the goal is the same: protecting your peace and your productivity.
Here is how The A-Team suggests you navigate the work-from-home life.
Build Trust Through Over-Communication
When you aren’t physically in an office, silence can be misinterpreted. High visibility leads to high confidence—for both you and your boss.
Be Proactive: Don’t wait for a manager to check in. Send a quick Friday wrap-up or a Monday "here’s my plan" note.
Show Up: Engage in team chats. Ask questions. Drop a meme in Slack. Building relationships remotely combats isolation and proves you’re locked in.
Set Hard Boundaries
Mixing your "chill space" with your "work space" is a recipe for burnout. Your bed is for rest, not for reports.
Create a Dedicated Zone: Even if it’s just one corner of the kitchen table, make that your official "office."
Clock Out Mentally: When the workday ends, shut the laptop. Physically stepping away helps you maintain a healthy divide between your job and your personal life.
Own Your Morning Routine
Rolling out of bed three minutes before a Zoom call doesn't set you up for a win.
Simulate a Commute: Create a ritual that signals the start of the day—stretch, shower, or grab a coffee.
Stick to a Schedule: Structure reduces anxiety. Knowing exactly when you start and stop prevents work from bleeding into your downtime.
Prioritize Your Health
We are unapologetically disability-forward. That means we know your health comes first—because if you burn out, you can’t work.
Move Your Body: Staring at a screen freezes you up. Take regular breaks to stretch or walk.
Ergonomics Matter: Set up a workspace that supports your physical needs. If you need a specific chair or tech tool, that's a reasonable accommodation—not a "favor."
Stay Connected: WFH can get lonely. Make sure you’re connecting with your local community outside of work hours to keep your social battery charged.
Optimize Your Workflow
You don’t need to work harder; you need to work different.
Limit Distractions: Set ground rules with family or roommates. Turn off non-urgent notifications during "deep work" blocks.
Use Tech to Your Advantage: Use templates for repetitive emails and shortcuts for data entry. Invest in reliable internet that suits your specific workflow.
Watch the Budget
Working from home shifts costs from the gas pump to the utility bill.
Energy Efficiency: Be mindful of lighting and cooling costs during the day.
Ask for Support: Don’t be afraid to ask about home-office stipends. Many companies offer reimbursements for internet or equipment.
We’re In Your Corner
Navigating a remote job while managing a disability or complex benefits can feel like a lot. We’ve got this.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or need help figuring out how to request a reasonable accommodation for your home setup, reach out to your Career Coach. We are here to help you navigate the "oh-nos" and turn them into wins.
