Covid-19 did come with significant challenges we all had to deal with almost overnight, but the world witnessed one big positive in this challenge. Corporates and businesses realised the potential of “Working from Home”.
Fast forward two years and many companies have established “Working from Home” as the norm. Research has proven that working from home has many benefits, including increased productivity, lower overhead costs, increased staff retention, happier employees, etc. But it also comes with disadvantages like isolation and loneliness, especially if you are new to it. Those that are more extroverted may struggle more with working from home.
So, what can you do to maintain your well-being when working from home? How do you create healthy boundaries between your work and personal life when you have family members at home? How do you stay mentally and physically fit and be a productive worker? I have compiled a list of a few of my favourite tried and true tips and tricks to help you put your health and well-being first when working from home while also staying productive during business hours. It has helped me a lot!
- The most underrated but essential and efficient tool to keep you focused is a “to-do list”. Firstly, create your “to-do list”. Go old-school pen and paper or use digital apps, whatever works for you! In a previous blog, I cover different options on to-do lists.
- Even though you are working from home, set definite working hours! It is essential to set boundaries and not let work overpower your personal life and vice versa.
- Take your breaks. Step away from your workspace!
- Communicate – use technology to stay connected with your colleagues.
- Make work buddies with whom you can virtually sit and work! Stay accountable to your work buddies, and help them stay responsible for their day!
- Create an “office space” to separate your work and home.
- At the end of the work day, pack away your workspace, turn off all work-related devices and go for a walk or do something that helps you to clear your mind after a busy day so you can switch off from work mode and focus on your personal and home life.
- Tidy your workspace regularly! A clutter-free desk makes us more productive.
- Block your time for tasks and cancel all distractions by switching off notifications on your cell phone.
- Go old fashioned – make that call and get things sorted instead of messages/emails wherever possible to ensure person-to-person communication, particularly if you’re more extroverted and need that human contact.
- Practice mindfulness.
- Ask for help instead of getting frustrated and stressed.
When working from home, self-care is crucial. Set healthy boundaries and prioritise your mental and physical well-being to remain productive and motivated.
If you feel like you need to start thinking about your well-being whilst remaining productive when working from home, get in touch, we can help.
