Even before the current health crisis, maintaining a satisfying work-life balance posed a challenge for many Americans. A 2018 study by the OECD revealed that U.S. workers spend 60% of their day on average, or 14.4 hours, to non-work related activities (sleeping, eating, personal care, family time, socializing, etc.), which is less than the OECD average of 15 hours per day. With many companies now operating with a remote workforce, the focus has shifted from balancing work and life to literally separating the two. That’s where your home environment can make all the difference.
Most telecommuters are aware that having a dedicated room or space in the home just for work makes it easier to leave the job behind at the end of the day (and Craftmark’s floor plans offer great options for offices and classroom space). However, getting creative with the rest of your living space can be an exciting way to keep the balance when going out is not an option. Below are some ideas that can turn your home into your haven.
Ramp Up The “Recreation”
Pop the popcorn, pick out a double feature and dim the lights for movie night. Or get a deck of cards, your favorite board game, and find online trivia for some friendly game night competition. There are countless ways to make the most of one of the more versatile rooms in the house while providing a little fun and relaxing family time. Build it into your weekly routine so you have dedicated time set aside for R&R, and something to look forward to during the work week.
Take A Few Lessons In Your Smart Kitchen
With a little help from the experts, you can finally craft those recipes you’ve been dying to try out – and have fun in the process. Visit one of the many online recipe tutorials and voila! You’ve made something new and delicious. Share the experience with your partner as you cook, learn, and eat together.
Tour The World From Your Living Room
What better way to achieve an optimal work-life balance than by transporting yourself to paradise? All you’ll need is a couch and a smart TV to take a family “vacation” via an online virtual tour. Turn down the lights and take a stroll down the streets of historic cities like Paris, London, Rome or Athens right from your living room. Make the experience even more authentic by serving snacks from the country you’re visiting. You can preview the sites you’ll be excited to tour when things go back to “normal,” and add a few things to your bucket list!
Have Date Night Alfresco
Turn your deck or terrace into a romantic date night destination under the stars for a refreshing change of scenery. Set up a cozy table for two, pipe in some soft music and light the candles. Then sit down to takeout from your favorite restaurant and enjoy an evening “on the town.” All Craftmark homes include stunning outdoor spaces that complement our exceptional interiors.
Since 1991, Craftmark Homes has represented luxury and craftsmanship in the metro D.C. community. Designed with eco-integrity and built with quality, Craftmark is family-owned and local to our customers. To get started with your dream home, contact us today.