Part 2: Finding Structure Without the Burnout
In Part 1, we talked about the disorienting shift that happens when you go from being constantly scheduled to suddenly having control over your time—but no clear roadmap.
In Part 2, let’s talk about what helps:
Not hustle.
Not rigid productivity.
Just a little bit of structure.
And to start, I’ve got a story. One of those stories that’s funny now… but wasn’t at the time.
The Pajama Incident
Years ago, I was running my own high-tech conference—self-employed and burning the candle at both ends. I still had kids living at home and was juggling everything from speaker schedules to sponsor outreach.
One morning, I’d been working since 5 a.m., completely absorbed in tasks. I never made it out of my pajamas—ripped bottoms, an oversized shirt with coffee spills down the front, and a total “mom hair” situation.
The doorbell rang.
Assuming it was just a package delivery, I opened the garage door and shouted, “Just put it inside!”
Except… it wasn’t a delivery.
A sharply dressed man walked up and said,
“I don’t have anything for you. I just found your address and thought I’d stop by to talk about a sponsorship opportunity.”
I wanted to disappear.
But I pulled myself together, greeted him with honesty and kindness—and 35 years later, we’re good friends. We still laugh about that moment. And it still reminds me how important it is to treat my work-from-home life like it matters.
What Helps: Structure That Feels Good
1. Make a list—then let it flex.
Each morning, I write a list of what I hope to get done. Not everything gets crossed off—and that’s fine.
The leftover items move to tomorrow’s list. It’s a guide, not a guilt trip.
2. Get dressed to work, not just to exist.
Even if I’m not leaving the house, changing out of pajamas shifts my mindset. I move differently. I work differently.
Working in coffee-stained PJs? Let’s just say I’ve learned my lesson.
3. Schedule meetings outside the house.
When my kids were in school, I made a habit of setting up quick morning meetings at local cafés—right after school drop-off.
Even if the “meeting” was with myself, it got me out the door, dressed, and focused.
It’s a great way to start your day with purpose—and a little caffeine.
4. Change your view.
Work in a new room. Take your laptop to a library or coworking space once a week. Sit on the porch.
Sometimes all you need is a different backdrop to feel re-energized.
5. Try “theme days” or blocks.
Give each day a soft focus:
- Monday: admin and emails
- Tuesday: inventory and booth planning
- Wednesday: creative work
- Thursday: social media + photos
- Friday: open/flex
It helps reduce decision fatigue and gives your week natural flow.
6. Create a “get started” ritual.
Light a candle, turn on your work playlist, sip your tea, stretch.
Even a 2-minute routine can cue your brain: Okay, it’s time to begin.
You don’t need hustle culture to be productive.
You just need rhythms that support you—especially during seasons of transition.
In Part 3, we’ll explore what success looks like when you’re the one defining it. Not your boss. Not your timecard. Just you, your goals, and what truly matters.
Until then,
Get dressed.
Make a list.
And if the doorbell rings… maybe double-check before shouting into the garage.
Read Part 3 here.
— The Booth Boss
