Working from home has advantages that some of us enjoy (bye-bye commute!), but for many others, it’s been difficult as well.
These straightforward hints may assist you to feel more productive and motivated, while also maintaining your mental health while working from home.
1. Set and stick to a routine
If you’re not on a regular schedule, it’s difficult to keep the lines between work and personal time distinct, which can be stressful.
If you’re able, try to follow your regular sleep and work routines.
Get out of bed at the same time, have breakfast, and get into your clothes. Before you log in, try scheduling your “commute time” and using it for exercise, reading, or listening to music.
Finally, when your day comes to an end, put down your tools. Stop checking emails and devote yourself to your family life instead. At the conclusion of the day, strive to go to sleep at the same time as usual.
2. Make a dedicated workspace
Take a knee, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. If you can, head to a quiet place away from people and distractions like the TV (or the kitchen when you’re hungry).
Before you start working, have all of your supplies in one spot – including chargers, pens, paper, and anything else – and close the door if possible. Even in a small or shared area, try to set aside a workstation.
Finally, relax. While it may be easy to sit on the sofa, it’s preferable to sit at a desk or table. Set up your workspace according to the NHS guidelines as much as possible and make yourself as comfortable as possible.
If you don’t have office furniture such as an adjustable chair, try resting your feet on a box or cushions to help you stay in your seat.
3. Give yourself a break
Breaks are crucial to help you deal with stress.
Take a lunch break and regular screen breaks, and allow yourself some time to relax so you’ll feel more focused when you return. Even just 5 to 10 minutes of brief rests each hour might have a significant impact on your productivity.
When you can, spend as much time as possible outside. Regular visits to a park or other natural areas are beneficial to your mental health.
Take action by going for a walk, running or riding a bike. Get some fresh air or have a coffee.
4. Stay connected
Working from home has both advantages and disadvantages. You may feel more alone while doing it, though there are numerous strategies to keep in touch with those who matter – not just our own mental well-being.
Human interaction is important, so schedule video chats and make phone calls instead of emailing. If you’re having trouble working from home, talk to your coworkers or manager about it.
Remember, your coworkers are probably in the same boat as you. Inquire about how they’re doing and whether there are any methods you can help them.
Make time to chat with people from all around the world – schedule a virtual coffee break or a Friday online gathering.
5. Set boundaries
Working from home might provide a flexible work environment, but it’s also important to have clear boundaries with family members.
Working from home allows you to be more adaptable, so enjoy it. However, if there are other distractions in your life, such as children at home who believe you are on vacation and wish to spend time with you, it may be tough.
Discuss your requirements with your family, especially if you have children. Remind them that you still have things to accomplish and need time to do so in peace.
Set limits with your job. It’s more difficult to stay online when your house is your workplace, but consider shutting off after work and spending time with the family at home.
6. Think longer term
Although you may be continuing to work from home for a while, consider ways to improve the way you work from home. Couldn’t you do your job in a room that’s warmer or has a window with lots of light?
Take some time to reflect on how you collaborate with others. Is there anything new software you can use?
7. Be kind to yourself
Remember, this is a unique circumstance, and things will not seem normal.
Recognize that you may not be as productive as you would like to be. Realistic about what you can accomplish in light of the circumstances, and unwind when your job is done.
