How to Set Yourself Up for Success in Remote Work (Without Losing Your Sanity)

If you’re new to remote work and don’t know where to start, let’s be clear: you’re not just going to sit on your couch with a weak Wi-Fi signal, scrolling through TikTok between emails, and call it a productive day. Nope. Success in remote work is all about intention, preparation, and having the right tools in place.

Now, I know some of y’all like to wing it, but trust me when I say, if you don’t get your setup right from the jump, you’re going to find yourself knee-deep in frustration, poor productivity, and body aches you didn’t even know were possible. But don’t trip – I’ve got you covered. We’re about to break down everything you need to set yourself up for success in remote work – from equipment to mindset – so you can focus on stacking those coins, not tech troubles.

1. Tech Equipment: Don’t Play Yourself

Listen up: You can’t go half-steppin’ when it comes to your tech setup. If your gear ain’t right, neither is your workday. We’re not about to be out here struggling with slow laptops and pixelated Zoom calls. That’s not the life.

Here’s what you need:

• Laptop or Desktop: Invest in something reliable, with at least 8GB of RAM and SSD storage. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself when your computer isn’t moving slower than dial-up internet from the 90s. PC or Mac – that’s up to you, but whatever you do, don’t go cheap on this.
• External Monitor: If you’re trying to juggle multiple tasks, having one screen just ain’t it. Get a second monitor, and watch your productivity shoot through the roof. You’ll be Zooming on one screen and handling business on the other. It’s a game-changer, hunny.
• Keyboard & Mouse: I get it, wireless everything is cute, but it’s also practical. Get yourself an ergonomic keyboard and mouse because nobody has time for carpal tunnel drama.
• Laptop Stand or Adjustable Desk: Posture matters. And I promise you, your neck and back are going to be screaming if you spend eight hours a day hunched over. A laptop stand or adjustable desk setup is non-negotiable. If standing desks sound like too much, get a converter for your existing desk.
• Headset with Mic: The world is already noisy enough, don’t let your workday be, too. Grab a headset with a solid mic. You want your clients and coworkers to hear you clearly without hearing your neighbor’s lawnmower in the background.
• Webcam: You think that grainy webcam from 2005 is going to cut it? Nah, love. Get yourself a 1080p webcam if you don’t want to be the fuzzy figure in team meetings. Remember, first impressions count – even in pixels.
• External Hard Drive: Back up your files. Period. I don’t care how advanced the cloud is, always have a physical backup. Data gets lost. Files get corrupted. You do not want to be that person crying over lost work.

2. Internet Setup: There’s No Such Thing as “Too Fast”

I need you to hear me when I say this: Your internet connection is your lifeline. A weak connection means slow downloads, glitchy video calls, and possibly even missed opportunities. We don’t do slow around here – you want your workday to flow seamlessly.

• High-Speed Internet: You need a minimum of 50-100 Mbps. If you’re live-streaming or working with heavy files, aim for 200+ Mbps. I don’t care what the budget is, you’ve got to make this investment if you want to keep up.
• Ethernet Cable: Wi-Fi is cute and convenient, but if you’re working with anything sensitive, or you’re on video calls all day, hardwire that connection. Stability matters.
• Backup Internet Source: Ever had your Wi-Fi die in the middle of a meeting? Don’t let that happen. Have a mobile hotspot or secondary internet option ready to go. Backup plans aren’t just for dates – they’re for your work life, too.

3. Your Workspace: Keep It Cute and Professional

Now, let’s talk about where you’re going to be working. I get it, the bed is tempting. But baby, you can’t build an empire from under the covers. If you’re serious about this remote life, you need a dedicated workspace.

• Dedicated Space: It doesn’t have to be fancy, but it needs to be yours. A specific area for work helps you keep your head in the game. Plus, it creates that mental separation between work and relaxation. Nobody can stay productive if they’re trying to juggle both in the same space.
• Good Lighting: Don’t nobody want to be that shadowy figure on a Zoom call. Whether it’s natural light or a good desk lamp, make sure your workspace is well lit. It keeps your energy up and your face visible. Look alive, people!
• Comfortable Chair: Sis, if you’re sitting in that same dining room chair from your last family reunion, stop. Your back is gonna scream before noon. Invest in an ergonomic chair. Trust me, you’ll feel the difference when your body isn’t suffering by the end of the day.
• Plants or Desk Decor: This ain’t just about aesthetics. Having a few plants or some cute desk decor will give you good energy and set the tone for your workspace. You need good vibes to keep that flow going.

4. Software & Apps: It’s Not 1999, Stay Current

Alright, let’s talk software. Gone are the days when Microsoft Word was all you needed to get by. You’ve got to have the right digital tools in your arsenal.

• Project Management Tools: Whether it’s Trello, Asana, or ClickUp, you need something to keep track of all the moving pieces. These tools will save you from juggling a million Post-it notes and missed deadlines.
• Communication Apps: Slack, Zoom, Microsoft Teams – pick your poison. But stay connected, and don’t be that person who’s always out of the loop because you didn’t check your messages.
• Cloud Storage: Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive – doesn’t matter which one. Just make sure everything is backed up and easily accessible.
• VPN: Protect your connection, love. Especially if you’re working with sensitive information. Get yourself a VPN and keep your data safe.
• Time Tracking Tools: If you’re a freelancer or solopreneur, you need something like Toggl or Clockify to keep track of your billable hours. No more guessing how long you spent on that client project. Track it and get paid what you’re worth.

5. Mindset: Work Like a Boss, Think Like a Human

Remote work isn’t just about equipment and software – it’s about keeping your head on straight. Without a proper routine and mindset, you’re setting yourself up for failure. Don’t be that person who’s burned out and miserable after two weeks.

• Routine: Stick to a schedule. Set clear start and end times for your day, just like you would in a regular office. Remote work doesn’t mean you’re available 24/7. Protect your time and energy.
• Take Breaks: You can’t grind all day without hitting a wall. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break, and look at something 20 feet away. Keep your eyes and mind fresh, love.
• Hydration & Snacks: Fuel your body. Keep water and healthy snacks nearby so you’re not raiding the fridge every hour. You need energy to stay sharp.

6. Level Up with the Right Tools

If all this sounds like a lot, don’t trip. I’ve got a shortcut for you. Grab my Quick Guide to Become a Virtual Assistant here to get the rundown on how you can monetize these remote skills. Whether you’re just starting or trying to step up your game, this guide will help you get there. Tell a friend to tell a friend – there’s plenty of money to be made in this virtual world, but only if you come correct.