Long before Covid gave the world the taste for working from home I actually had a couple of jobs that gave me that freedom, however I’ll tell anyone that I’m the worst at working from home. I really dislike it and to be honest I’m not great at it. I get too easily distracted throughout the day and end up working long hours to balance it out. Whenever I have the option I always go for coming into work. Unfortunately I don’t really have that choice as an indie game designer, the office is at home and I go long stretches on my own which depending on the day can be super productive or completely wasted. One thing I forgot about was the only useful observation I’d had in previous WFH jobs. Nothing about setting goals, timers checklists, checking with people etc etc - all reasonable life hacks to be sure. No, mine was pretty basic but surprisingly effective, for me at least. Get dressed and put on your shoes. I’m not a hang around the house in my pyjamas kind of guy anyway. Nor am I particularly keen on tracksuit pants etc. No judgement, it’s just not for me. So I avoid that for the most part anyway but I learned that I always focus better when I put on my shoes, even though I don’t need to go outside. It’s just one of my quirks, I put on my shoes and I feel more like getting stuff done. No shoes and I can wander around the house aimless for hours. I’m sure that this does not apply to everyone, I know some people thrive working from home but for me it is this trick that always helps me get into the groove of working. If you’re like me and struggle a little with focus etc maybe give that a try for a couple of days and see if it makes a difference - it might work or you might find yourself still building forts in the living room with the couch cushions.
