If you’re used to the buzz and busy of the office, school or workspace, adjusting to working from home can take some getting used to. Here are a few practical tips guaranteed to keep the productivity up and you on track:
Tidy up your home – you wouldn’t work in an untidy environment elsewhere so it should be the same at home.
Don’t work from your bed on your laptop. That route is a guaranteed non-starter.
Dress as if you’re off to work. No pj’s at your desk.
Create a defined workspace, if possible in a separate room and if you aren’t home alone, close the door.
Get up as early as you would have if you were still commuting to work. Use that commute time (unless you’re under quarantine) to go for a walk. The exercise and fresh air will contribute to your feeling of well-being and being prepared for the day ahead.
If you have pets that enjoy walks, walk them – they will benefit from the exercise as much as you will.
Invest in a decent chair (or borrow yours from the office if permitted).
If your type of work allows and/or your family/children are home, wear headphones.
Make sure your family and friends understand you are working, so no popping in during working hours.
Don’t snack at your ‘desk’. Eat proper meals at designated times away from your work area.
As always, maintain good hydration habits. Although you may not have the convenience of water cooler breaks at home, make sure that you replenish your water as often as you would at work. Good hydration habits can only contribute to your health and well-being.
Set a schedule and stick to it.
Unless you work in social media, stay off it. That said, there’s no harm in creating an online work community so you are all still connected.
Do not switch on the telly. I repeat, do not switch on the telly.
