Working from home has its benefits. However, it can be more challenging to stay productive and motivated. Here are our four tips for wellbeing and productivity while working from home.
1. Separate yourself from distractions
The key to being productive at home is making sure you minimise the distractions around you. Set up your dedicated workspace, as you would have a desk in an office, with enough light and everything you need around you to be productive and better focus on your tasks.
Also, trying to multi-task home chores with work can be challenging and stressful. Separating work time can help you concentrate better.
If living with your partner, family or flatmates, it important to communicate when your work and leisure times are. Set out time in which its necessary for you to have space and privacy to be productive. Ultimately, it will allow more time in the evening leisure activities.
2. Stick to a routine
To create a good work-life balance at home, it is vital to stick to a routine. If a routine is lost, things are likely to become disorganised and more challenging to manage.
The first and most crucial step is your morning routine. Keep it as close to your normal routine as possible and use that commuting time in the mornings wisely. If you are permanently working from home, then create a routine that boosts your productivity. In either case, starting your day with a healthy breakfast, getting out of your pyjamas and exercise could be great boosts to your motivation and productivity.
Setting daily objectives is a good way to stay productive, while celebrating your daily achievement is also essential. Ticking things off a list is a great way to boost your mood.
3. Stay Connected
Spending time at home can often be very isolating as that social time with colleagues can be lost. Sometimes try to call, even video call colleagues for work matters that could have been an email, or just for a catch-up. Choosing a call over an email can be a great way to stay in the loop and feel connected. Virtual meetings or calls should stay flexible and allow time for a casual chat too.
Organising social work calls within groups could also be a great way to check up on colleagues, while also updating each other on matters unrelated to work.
4. Take YOU time
There is a pressure that comes with working from home, feeling that you should always be connected. Taking time away from your laptop and work phone is essential, ‘go home’ as you usually would.
Spend time doing things you enjoy and will get you moving, whether that is exercise, yoga or even just stretching.
Planning regular breaks into your schedule is also important; this will give your brain a rest and allow you to come back fresh and ready to get back to work.