Work From Home Tips

Work-from-home. It’s a concept that not many of us have had to deal with on a large scale. Thanks to COVID-19, employees are transitioning their lives with trying to be just as productive as they were before. While working from home may seem like a piece of cake, it’s easier said than done. Here are some tips to help you stay focused, zen, and of course healthy when it comes to getting your tasks done efficiently.

Know Yourself (and your WFH weaknesses) 

It’s easy to get distracted when you’re working from home thanks to kids and an abundance of technology. So, what can you do? Set a routine. Get up and get ready as if you were going to work. This puts you in a professional mindset and ready to conquer the day! Also, make sure to try and start your workday at the same time you normally would, so you can stay within the bounds of your daily routine.

Create a Workspace 

When you work remotely, you can work from the comfort of your bed…but you shouldn’t! It’s important to set up your own work station. If you don’t have your own private office, use your dining room table. Working from a set place in your home helps you reap multiple benefits, including maintaining good posture and avoiding distractions.

Be Prepared for Disruptions

If you have kids, working from home can be a challenge, especially if you have little ones. It’s important to set boundaries, plan ahead, and have a little bit of flexibility. Here are some tips on what you can do:

• Ask for help. Even though the coronavirus is floating around society, there are still people who can help you with your kids if needed. Are you close with a particular family member? Ask them to stay with you during the quarantine period. If you co-parent, you can take turns between watching the kids and working. 
• Try something new. Kids love new things such as new toys and games. These will keep them entertained for longer periods of time. Arts and crafts projects are also sure to buy you a lot of time. 

Embrace the Webcam

It’s so important to stay connected when you work remotely! Make sure to check-in regularly with your co-workers just like you would at the office. It’s a good idea to set up phone or video conferencing like Skype, Zoom, or Google Hangouts. You can also create to-do lists to help yourself stay organized and share it with your supervisor so they know that you’re staying on top of work.

Don’t Multitask

While you’re working from home, you may feel the itch to multitask. Whether it’s starting a load of laundry or cleaning up the living room, it’s hard not to be distracted. It’s okay to take breaks and give yourself time to breathe, but don’t start doing a chore that causes you to lose your productivity. You wouldn’t be folding laundry if you were working in a normal office. 

Get Some Fresh Air 

Just because experts advise to limit social contact doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a little fresh air. Open up your windows to let in natural light and a little bit of a breeze. Get outside and take short walks in your neighborhood if possible! Too much sitting isn’t good for anyone.

Stay safe and stay healthy during this work-from-home period!