The remote worker's survival guide

Remote work sounds like a dream to many people, and it can be.

No commute, working in comfy clothes, more flexibility.

But let’s be real: it also comes with its own set of challenges. Feeling disconnected, overworking without realising it, and figuring out how to build relationships when your "office" is a screen.

So, how do you actually make remote work... work? Here are some simple, effective ways to not just survive but thrive in a remote setting.

One: Set Boundaries Before Work Takes Over Your Life

When home is the office, the office never really closes. Ever found yourself answering Slack messages at 10 PM “just because”? You’re not alone.

Fix it:

• Set a clear “log off” time and stick to it. No “one last email.” No “quick reply.”
• Communicate your availability (block focus time on your calendar or update your status).
• Take actual breaks—away from the screen! Lunch at your desk doesn’t count.

Pro Tip: If you struggle with switching off, create a fake commute—a walk outside before/after work can help mentally separate your day.

Two: How Not To Go Stir-Crazy

Newsflash: Remote work can get lonely fast. No casual desk chats. No spontaneous coffee breaks.

Fix it:

• Schedule virtual coffee chats (Yes, it feels awkward at first. No, it’s not weird.)
• Join fun Slack channels (#random, #music-recs, #pet-pics—it helps!)
• Use voice notes or quick calls instead of endless messaging. A little human interaction goes a long way.

Pro Tip: If your company has coworking stipends, use them! A change of scenery can boost motivation and help you meet people.

Three: Avoid the “Always Online” Trap

Remote work often comes with a subtle pressure to prove you’re working (hello, green status light). But being glued to your computer all day doesn’t equal productivity.

Fix it:

• Results > Hours: Focus on getting things done, not just “looking busy.”
• Set response time expectations (Slack isn’t urgent, emails aren’t emergencies).
• Use async communication when possible. Not everything needs a meeting!

Pro Tip: If you feel guilty about stepping away, remind yourself: “Availability is not the same as productivity.”

Four: Virtual Meetings: They Don’t Have to Suck

We’ve all been in those Zoom calls—the ones that could have been an email, the ones where no one speaks, the ones where you’re wondering if your camera is still on.

Fix it:

• Have a purpose: No agenda? No meeting. Simple.
• Keep cameras optional (some days, you just don’t want to be seen—it’s fine!).
• Encourage engagement: Polls, reactions, even a quick icebreaker can make a huge difference.

Pro Tip: If you’re leading a meeting, try a “Silent Start”. Give people 2-3 minutes to read the agenda quietly before talking. Less chaos, more focus.

Five: Productivity Hacks That Actually Work

You know the drill: Start the day motivated. Blink. It’s 5 PM and you’ve accomplished... nothing?

Fix it:

• Try time blocking: Set specific chunks for deep work, emails, breaks.
• Use the “2-minute rule”: If a task takes less than 2 minutes, do it immediately.
• Designate a “fake commute” or start-of-day ritual to shift into work mode.

Pro Tip: Track your most productive hours and align your toughest tasks with those times. Morning person? Do deep work early. Night owl? Plan accordingly.

Six: Building Trust & Visibility (Without Overdoing It)

One of the biggest fears in remote work? “Will they notice my contributions?” Visibility matters, but overcompensating by answering emails at midnight isn’t the solution.

Fix it:

• Regularly share wins (small or big) in team chats.
• Offer to present something in a meeting so your expertise gets noticed.
• Check in with your team, even just to say “Hey, how’s your week going?”

Pro Tip: If you feel overlooked, set up monthly 1:1s with your manager to talk about your progress and career growth. Don’t wait until performance reviews.

Final Thought: Remote Work is What You Make of It

Some people love it. Some people struggle with it. But if you set boundaries, stay connected, and work smarter, not longer, you’ll be in the “thriving” category in no time.

Do you need support managing your remote work schedule? Get in touch