May 9, 2025, Issue #12

Hello !

I hope this message finds you well. I’ve been working from home since 2007—through the early years of raising little kids, multiple moves, going back to school, and running a household. It was rarely easy, but over time, I’ve found systems that help me stay productive and focused (without burning out).

Today, I’m sharing some of my favorite tips for staying motivated while working from home. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to fine-tune your routine, these are the strategies that work for me—and the ones I coach my clients through every day.

All the best,

Laurie McAleenan

Fractional Business Support | Remote Executive Assistant

Task Owl Va, LLC

How to Stay Motivated (and Sane) While Working From Home

Let’s be real:

Working from home sounds like a dream—until laundry, Netflix, and the fridge start calling your name.

The freedom is great.

The distractions? Not so much.

As a remote Executive Assistant, I plan my working time around my clients’ needs—but I’ve also learned to block space for my own business, personal appointments, and actual time off. Creating intentional structure is what helps me and my clients stay focused, efficient, and sane.

Here’s how I keep my work-from-home game strong—and how you can, too:

☕ Start the Day with Intention

Every morning starts with coffee and a business book. I take a few quiet minutes to read, reflect, and then review my calendar so I have a clear mental picture of the day ahead. It sets a calm, focused tone that carries me through.

📍Follow Your “Perfect Week” Plan

I’m a big fan of The 12 Week Year system, especially the “perfect week” layout. This means blocking time in my calendar for recurring meetings, focus time, and even breaks—so there’s always a rhythm to the week, even when things get busy.

🖥 Design a Space That Works for You

I’m lucky enough to have a detached home office (no distractions from the kitchen or laundry piles!). My non-negotiables? A comfy chair, good lighting, a sense of organization—and yes, great pens. Your workspace should invite focus, not avoid it.

📅 Time Block Like a Pro

Instead of just running off a to-do list, I assign tasks to specific times in my calendar. It’s a way of showing up for myself and my business the same way I show up for my clients—with purpose.

👯 Find Accountability That Actually Works

One of the most powerful productivity tools I’ve ever tried is a virtual "power hour" with an accountability buddy. We start by quickly sharing our goals for the hour, work quietly in our own spaces, and reconnect at the end to check in. It sounds simple, but knowing someone else is tracking with you? It works.

Working from home gives you flexibility—but staying productive takes intention.

Start by adding just one small habit to your routine this week.

And if you’re ready to build systems that align with your life and business goals, I’d love to support you.

👇

Let’s Book a Free 30-Min Call

Let’s design a work-from-home rhythm that actually works.

Book Recommendations

The 12 Week Year: Get More Done in 12 Weeks than Others Do in 12 Months 

If traditional yearly planning leaves you feeling behind by February, The 12 Week Year is a game-changer. It challenges the idea that success needs 12 months and instead helps you focus on what matters most now. The book offers a clear framework to set focused goals, map out your “perfect week,” and build real momentum with short, powerful sprints.

I’ve used this method in my own business to structure client work, block out creative time, and finally stop moving my priorities to "next week." Highly recommend if you’re ready to trade in hustle for intentional action.

👉 Add it to your reading list—it’s a smart companion for any productivity system.

Shop Now!

About Task Owl VA

Hi, I’m Laurie McAleenan, the heart behind Task Owl VA

I help solo entrepreneurs and small business owners keep their businesses running smoothly by handling the details that take up time and energy.

When you’re managing everything on your own, it can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to do it all yourself. I take care of the tasks keeping you from focusing on where you're needed most.

To introduce me to your business and find out if my services are right for you, book a free 30-minute call.

Book Now!