The whole “working from home” thing was not working for me.

Don’t get me wrong. I feel incredibly lucky to be able to work anywhere that has a phone, computer and an internet connection. But after months away from the office, I was burned out, disconnected and decidedly grumpy.

What was an editor to do? What else, but to call up perfect strangers and ask their advice. These eye-opening conversations turned into “News from the Home Office.”

Despite their different jobs and companies, all the entrepreneurs had similar advice — especially when it came to their most valuable tip for remote work — setting and keeping a firm schedule.

Huh? Wasn’t one of the benefits supposed to be freedom from the clock? Instead of 9 to 5, I could work 10 to 6 or even 7:30 to 3:30. Work anywhere and anytime, right?

Wrong.

Normally I have a 45-minute commute to Cary, and in March, when I didn’t have to get in the car anymore, I figured I would have extra time to catch up on my work. So instead of 9 to 5, it became more like 8:30 to 6, without much of a break. And I never caught up; there was always more work.

No wonder I was grumpy.

So, I took the experts’ advice. I changed my routine and actually set firm working hours. I also scheduled a 45-minute walk every morning before work. I eat lunch at the same time most days, and even if I have unanswered emails, I log off promptly.

So far, I feel better physically and mentally, and I’m actually more productive and focused when I’m officially on the clock. As a side benefit, I use that time in the morning to think about my writing, what stories I’d like to put in the magazine and people I’d like to interview. I had always done this creative brain work in the car, to and from the office, and I had never realized how important it was.

Their advice may not help anyone but me, but nevertheless, I hope you enjoy meeting these home entrepreneurs.

More From Our Sept 2020 Issue

• Woman of Western Wake: Anne Clem Whitaker
• Woman of Western Wake: Carla Mantilla
• Woman of Western Wake: Lisa Higginbotham
• Woman of Western Wake: Rev. Dr. Rose Cornelious
• Woman of Western Wake: Willa Brigham
• Presenting the 2020 Women of Western Wake
• Nonprofit Spotlight: Wade Edwards Learning Lab
• From the Editor: Making it Work Remotely
• News from the Home Office
• Restaurant Profile: The Peak on Salem
• Liquid Assets: Mort’s Trophy Lager from Trophy Brewing Co.
• Garden Adventurer: Vitex, the Other Summer Show