This is an I-Heart podcast.

Good morning. This is Laura.

Welcome to the new corner office, the podcast where we share strategies for thriving in the new world of work, where location and hours are more flexible than in the past.

Today's tip is to work outside.

Yep, today.

Just because we're in the middle of the work week doesn't mean you can't see the sun again until next weekend.

We've been in our homes a lot over the past six months since COVID-19 made our worlds

get smaller. There are fewer social events or activities to go to. And if you're working at home as well,

it's possible to go days without venturing out the door. Now, I am not suggesting you go hang out with crowds of people.

But don't stay cooped up in your house all day.

Anytime you can, try to work outside. While late spring and early fall may be prime times for

working outside in many places, even places still experiencing heat waves aren't off limits.

A little shade goes a long way toward making it bearable to be outside.

A porch or a shady fire escape can be a great spot for getting some work done.

The camping chair you use to watch outdoor concerts can double as a remote office chair

when you work under a shade tree in your backyard or at the park.

Even if it's rainy, working outdoors isn't out of the question if you've

got a little covered space on a porch or a stoop. A pavilion at a public park could make a good

rainy day workspace too. Some research suggests that being outdoors can boost your mood and less

anxiety and enhance your focus and creativity too. I find I feel much more relaxed

when I've spent time outside. I find I'm less irritable too, which is good for everyone around me.

If you're not used to working outside, you may feel a little weird about it and wonder what kinds of work are outdoors appropriate.

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