Remote work has its perks. No commute, comfy clothes, and the ability to make lunch in your own kitchen. But let’s be honest: sitting at a desk (or the couch…or the kitchen table) all day can sometimes blur the lines between “working hard” and “hardly moving.”
At TDG, we know this better than most. Our entire team works remotely, so we’ve had to figure out how to stay healthy, connected, and productive while working from home. The good news? With a few simple habits, you can keep your workday running smoothly, and maybe even have a little fun while you’re at it.
Here are some of the tried-and-true tips our team swears by:
Working from the couch may feel cozy, but your back might disagree. A supportive chair, proper screen height, and a designated workspace do wonders for your posture (and your productivity). Plus, having a “work zone” makes it easier to switch off at the end of the day. Something our team values to keep a healthy work/life balance.
Regular breaks are essential. Stand up, stretch, go for a short walk, or do a lap around the house. Even two minutes of movement every hour can help. Pro tip: pacing during phone calls totally counts as exercise. We do it all the time.
Coffee is great (we love coffee), but water is non-negotiable. Keep a glass or bottle nearby and actually drink from it. Staying hydrated supports focus and energy. At TDG, “the water cooler” may be the name of our social Google chat, but we also try to always keep our water bottles within reach.
It’s tempting to let the day drift when you’re at home, but a routine helps keep things balanced. Start and finish around the same time each day, eat proper meals, and schedule breaks. Your body (and brain) thrive on structure. Even if that structure includes a 3:00 p.m. snack break.
A tidy workspace helps you focus and feel less stressed. You don’t have to go full minimalist, but clearing away mugs, snack wrappers, and random clutter makes it easier to concentrate on the task at hand.
Remote offices can be a little too quiet. Music, a podcast, or ambient sounds can help you focus. Around TDG, playlists range from lo-fi beats to classic rock and big band. We call it “creative fuel.”
A few minutes of deep breathing, stretching, or stepping outside can reset your focus. No need for incense or special apps (unless that’s your thing). Just a pause and a breath can do the trick for most of us.
Working remotely doesn’t mean working alone. Regular check-ins, quick chats, and yes, the occasional meme keep us connected and supported. Collaboration is the heartbeat of TDG, even if we’re not in the same room.
Finished a report? Cleared your inbox? Drank three glasses of water before noon? Celebrate it! Sharing wins with your team—big or small—keeps motivation and morale high.
When your office is also your living room, it’s tempting to “just check one more email.” Set boundaries and give yourself permission to shut down for the day. Your brain (and your Netflix queue) will thank you.
Remote work is here to stay, and at TDG, we’ve embraced the reality that a thriving agency can run just as well from our couches, home offices, and even the occasional Muskoka chair. With the right habits, remote work can be just as energizing and collaborative as office life, only with better coffee and comfier slippers.