In this season of the COVID pandemic, many companies are suggesting—even requiring—that more employees work from home.
One of the enticing elements of working remotely is having the liberty to make and tailor your work environment to your individual requirements. This means playing music as loudly as you want and setting the A/C just right, but it’s also about choosing a set up that promotes productivity, but working from home can be a lonely enterprise in this era of social distancing, Without others around, it’s easy to slip into bad habits or forget to put healthy practices in place, but it doesn’t have to be.
So, whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been at it for a while, here are some best tips for making sure remote work works for you and continues to for the long run, in case the new normal stays a long time.
1. Set-up your workspace. Position your workspace where you won’t get distracted and at the same time won’t distract other people in your house. Do not use your kitchen table as your workstation, you need to have a separate area or room for a stress-free day. Have the appropriate tools and equipment needed for work as if you are just in your physical office.
2. Block excess noise. You need to be able to concentrate. Too much noise can distract you. It is handy to have a noise-canceling headset where you can listen to soothing music or sounds, like that of nature. If your brain is calm you’ll be able to focus more, plus you’ll be healthier cause you won’t allow the day’s pressure to get in the way.
3. Set designated places you can go to within your work shift. By doing this you will avoid your mind from wandering or it will prevent you from doing things that will only waste your time. The temptation to be idle is very strong in the home setting. You will also avoid taking an unnecessary break because you have mentally set up a designation for all the activities that you will do at home work-wise.
4. Constantly communicate with your team. Working from home may mean physical isolation but thanks to technology you can still get in touch with your team. So you won’t lose the spirit of camaraderie, make it a habit to constantly update, and seek help if you need be.
5. Put away work tools at the end of your work shift. Once you’re done for the day keep everything work-related out of your sight. This is the only way you can maintain work-life balance while doing the work from home set up. This will also stop you from sneaking into your workspace when you want to retreat from everyone else in your house. Do not be a slave to your work or use it as an escape.
The flexibility of working remotely often means the liberty to structure your day around what works for you and your individual lifestyle, so make the best of it.
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
