8 Tips for Working from Home
Working from home certainly has its benefits, like freedom and flexibility. But it can also be challenging. Many of us are used to office routines like clear time boundaries or social interactions. When those things are replaced with a computer screen in our living room, we might find ourselves feeling confused and demotivated. Below are 8 tips on how to make our working from home less daunting and more enjoyable.
1. Create your Workstation
Be it the luxury of your home office or a specific corner of your dining table, make sure this space is designated for work only. It helps when your workplace is non cluttered and distraction free.
2. Establish a Morning Routine
While working from home, it can be tempting to stay in bed as long as possible. In the long run however, this mindset can work against you. You don’t have to get up super early; set your alarm for time that’s realistic for you. Being able to stick to your plans and goals will reward you with a sense of accomplishment and control.
3. Dress for Work
Being suitably attired while working can help you get into the work discipline. Changing clothes into something more comfortable at the end of your working day can help you unwind, switch off and relax.
4. Plan your Day
Research has shown that having consistent daily routines positively affects our mental health and sleep patterns. Planning your lunch or coffee break can help you re-energise and increase productivity.
5. Try the Pomodoro Technique
This time management system consists of four 25-minute periods of work separated by five minute intervals. At the end you take a longer, 15-minute break. Spend your breaks away from your workstation, a little stretch or walk can be great too. Websites like www.tomato-timer.com can help you to maintain the routine.
6. Exercise
While working from home, it’s easy to let go of your exercise routine. Choose an activity that you enjoy - walking, running or a stretch will bring your endorphin levels up, leaving you energised. Create a varied list of exercises you like. That way it won’t feel like another chore, and you won’t get bored.
7. Eat Healthy Foods
Working from home can make it more difficult to keep healthy eating habits, as we’re more likely to reach for snacks. Making them less accessible by removing them from your sight and putting in a press helps. We’re less likely to reach for a biscuit in the top press than in an open tin on the kitchen table! Planning your meals ahead and preparing a healthy snack is also a good strategy.
8. Pack up at the End of the Day
Setting up boundaries between work and leisure time is essential while working from home. By putting away your laptop and organising your papers, your mind receives a message that it’s time to leave the work tasks behind and relax. Changing your clothes and having a cup of tea just after work can be another routine that will help you maintain a boundary between work and rest.