It looks like a lot of us will continue to work from home for longer than we thought. And although at some point many will return to their offices, I predict there will be a significant segment of the workforce who will make working from home their new normal.

If you've hastily set up a work area with the expectation that it's only temporary, you might now be feeling the need for a more permanent arrangement. As I've been largely working from home for the past several years while homeschooling my children, I'll gladly share my best practices for home office bliss.

CARVE OUT YOUR SPACE

This one is obvious, but oh so important. I started out with a barstool at the kitchen counter, but quickly realized I had to find a space that was all mine. I chose an unused nook in the living room, painted it a calming color, hung up a cherished painting, and outfitted it with a desk. Although it's not a separate room, it works for me, and I love it because it's my own space.

Whatever spot you choose, you need to make it work for you. Whether tucked away in a quiet corner or open to the main living area, your office space should be your comfort zone where you can do your best work.

EQUIP YOURSELF FOR SUCCESS

Since working in a cave would be counter-productive, a well-lit work area is important to help you focus on the tasks at hand. I use a combination of natural light, a bright overhead light, and an adjustable desk lamp.  Much like your office at work, you should find a spot to organize your needed supplies and equipment, so you can find exactly what you're looking for quickly. Don't forget to add some personal touches that make you feel happy, calm, or inspired when you're stressed.

PACE YOURSELF

If you don't have stringent schedule requirements, good for you.  As I'm an independent contractor, my schedule is determined by a combination of the needs of my clients and the needs of my family, so I work a lot of odd, disjointed hours. But given free reign, I'd find myself working for hours at a stretch without ever getting up. This is bad! You need to take breaks every so often, even if you do nothing more than drink a glass of water , stretch, and walk around the house a couple of times. Not only does it help you improve your focus when you return to your desk, but it's also beneficial to your circulation.

SEPARATE YOUR WORLDS

The line between work and family life inevitably gets blurred when you work from home. The tendency is for home to creep into your work space (happens all the time here!), especially if you have kids. And though you probably don't want to completely shut out your family while you work, establishing some boundaries is a good idea.

One way to do this is to block out chunks of time when you can focus on important tasks without interruption. Let the family know you are not to be disturbed during those hours, and use it to knock out your most essential tasks. Then, be sure to do the opposite: set aside definite times when you are off duty and able to do chores and spend time with your family. Leaving work "at work" is important and helps you keep your balance.

TENDING TO TIKES

But what if your kids require a lot of supervision or attention? If you don't have anyone else to help, and it's all on you, then it becomes a bit more challenging. Keeping young ones safe is your top priority, of course, so babies and toddlers need to be where you can see them all the time while you work. You might have to save the parts of your job that require the most concentration and quiet for times when they are napping, and be prepared to take frequent breaks to tend to their needs the rest of the time. Having activities ready ahead of time that they can do nearby while you're busy can also be a lifesaver.

CUT YOURSELF SOME SLACK

Remember, nearly everyone is working from home right now, and some who aren't just might be slightly jealous. Take advantage of the gift of a mid-morning hug, a snuggly fur baby break, or the chance to get your laundry done. Enjoy it, even if you think you aren't organized enough. It's okay to feel uncertain and adrift – you're definitely not alone in that. Reach out to a friend (even me), and get yourself back on track. You'll do fine!