How a CEO Works (and Plays) from Home

by | May 5, 2020 | Team Sapphire

Jenn's desk set up.

As the founder and CEO of Sapphire Strategy, a small business (like so many others) affected by a global pandemic, I wanted to share some working from home strategies that work well for me and be honest about what’s become more difficult. I hope that by sharing my experiences, it can let others know they are not alone in this swiftly changing world.

Since working from home, one of the biggest benefits is I have more time since I’m not traveling as much. This means I have more time to dedicate to client work, checking in with my team, and working on the business as well as in the business. I am incredibly thankful for the opportunity to do so.

While I have more time in my day, I have fewer interactions with others. I get my energy from people, so it’s been hard not meeting with people in person. However, live video calls and other collaboration tools have made the transition much easier. It’s especially fun when our pets want to join the conversation, and we have fun video backgrounds.

I think the preventative measures will ultimately help everyone, but I’ll be glad to see my team and clients face-to-face again when it makes sense and is safe.

As for the day-to-day work, I’ve found that the best way to stay focused and hit deliverables is to stay motivated. That means thinking about my goals, writing them down, and visualizing what’s next. I use a goal planner to do so, and that keeps me on track.

Work-Life Balance

As a business owner, I don’t really know what work-life balance means. But I also recognize that I’m a “live-to-work” person, and I absolutely love what I do. The best way I make sure to have time off is by giving myself limits and making it a priority to spend time with my husband when he gets home.

On my breaks, I am really enjoying playing the Nintendo Switch or Xbox (Lego games all the way!) I also enjoy doing Tarot readings and learning more about Tarot. Honestly, I toggle between super adulting and being a 5-year-old kid; there is apparently no in between.

When I’m not working, I’ve been keeping active. We recently bought a rowing machine, and that’s been a great way to exercise at home (it also helps that it’s in my office!). I’ve also enjoyed online barre classes. To keep myself mentally fit, I’ve had fun completing puzzles or strategy games with my husband on the weekends.

This crazy, confusing time in our world has turned a lot of lives and businesses upside down, but I’m trying to be optimistically realistic about the future. I hope you and yours are safe and healthy.