Having a job that allows you to work from anywhere has it’s perks. You don’t have to dress up for a job, fight traffic or read books about dealing with annoying colleagues. You can also work from any location and customize work to your lifestyle.
Here are some tips to blend the two and get the most out of being a location independent worker.
1. Schedule work around play.
If you like to travel but haven’t planned any trips lately, write out a weekend getaway bucket list or a day trip wishlist. Do your best to get work done ahead of time or plan to work while in transit so you can start seeing more places. You’d be surprised at how much you can accomplish on an airplane or train ride. A little planning, effort and a Wi-Fi connection can go along way.
2. Set a work schedule while away.
In between seeing your favorite attractions or cities, block out hours during the day to get work done. You can get it out of the way so you can enjoy the your free time once you’re finished without having any deadlines looming and putting a damper on your thoughts and feeling throughout your trip.
3. Practice random acts of fun even in your own area.
Why restrict fun to only the weekend? Make a mini-bucket list in your own area and work nearby. Maybe you’ve been meaning to try that new Thai restaurant down the street or purchase a chipotle veggie burger from the vegan food truck. Search for local gems like this so you don’t have to go too far to incorporate some excitement into your week. It can serve as an informal deadline to finish your work on time. It can also be a reward for a job well done.
4. Fit in time to stay fit.
If you enjoy exercise, maybe you can read or talk to team members while you’re on a stationary bike or treadmill so you can still squeeze in a workout without having to get up at the crack of dawn.
If you work out at a gym, take advantage of off peak times when there aren’t as many people there. You can have your pick of the equipment you want to use without having to wait to use a machine.
5. Get shopping done
Finding great deals can be a job all its own. Go to the grocery store at times when it’s not as crowded or take advantage of delivery services. Many of them allow you to keep your grocery list on the site so you don’t have to rewrite it every time. Whether they deliver it to your home or you schedule to pick it up yourself, it saves you time that would be spent walking through aisle after aisle at the store.
CVS even has an express curbside pickup service now. You can access this service online at CVS.com/Express or by using the CVS Pharmacy app. This is perfect for times when you’re not feeling so well and need to get some cold medicine, cough drops or other items.
It even comes in handy to maximize your working hours and spend less time shopping. You can feel like a VIP having someone else do the shopping for you. I’ve seen promotions for first time users. You can save $10 on your first order of $15 or more. Check the website for the latest information since it could change or might not be offered where you are.
The Bottom Line
With a little planning, you can take full advantage of having a flexible schedule that comes with being a location independent worker. Be strategic with your time and sprinkle in some fun during the workweek.
By making a few small changes in your schedule and planning ahead a little, you’ll find that you can enjoy your surroundings and prioritize some down time while still being productive in regards to your work and earning a solid income.
[Related: 3 Ways Independent Workers Can Be More Productive]
