Amy Tierney, a product marketing manager at security information and event management company LogRhythm, said she begins each day by writing out a daily to-do list. Checking off each task gives her a sense of accomplishment. When the workday is over, she makes sure to “switch off” from work to avoid burnout.
How long have you worked remotely, and what drew you to this type of role?
I’ve worked remotely at LogRhythm for two years, but I’ve held positions where I worked both remotely and commuted to an office a few times a week since 2010. Most of my remote-related jobs involved lengthy commutes or were located out of state, which made daily traveling to the office difficult. Working from home gives me the flexibility to achieve a better work-life balance and avoid the stress of a long commute. It also helps me stay focused without the typical office distractions.
What’s the one thing you do everyday that has the biggest positive impact on your work as a remote employee?
I make a daily to-do list to prioritize tasks and jot down notes to ensure I’m not missing any deliverables. Project management software, such as Wrike, helps me stay on track. Also, making a clear plan of what I’m working on each day keeps me focused. I also feel a sense of accomplishment when I physically check off a completed task throughout the day.
What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned about remote work?
It’s OK to switch off and disconnect from work at the end of the day. While it’s easy to work longer hours that exceed a typical workday, that habit can lead to burnout. Respect your work hours and commit to achieving set goals for the day, but remember to respect your non-work time. It’s important to achieve a good work-life balance.