The world is still awash with uncertainty about the best way to handle the fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic, and with the chance of a second outbreak, the question is still how to safely and effectively return to work. While some businesses are unable to operate at partial capacity, many companies are choosing to remain partially or fully remote. There is a litany of benefits to employing remote workers and some organizations are realizing that they can drastically cut down on their financial overhead in this way.
Working from home presents a number of benefits and challenges for employees, however. And, no matter the reason for being remote, adapting to the new circumstances and setting are necessary to ensure productivity. These tips can help you keep on track without leaving the house.
Maintain a regular schedule.
Pick a designated time to wake up every day and stick to it. Roughly 45% of the things you do during the day are habitual, and they grow stronger and more ingrained over time. This, along with getting up and starting your day like any other, helps you reinforce in your brain that you’re working. It will keep you motivated and provide structure to your day, improving productivity.
Identify what needs to get done and then do it.
Creating a to-do list can help bolster the sense of structure that you want to cultivate in your home office. Update your to-do list as you complete tasks or at the end of each week. You can use this list as a means of designating short-term and long-term goals. It gives you something to focus on every day and jobs to build towards, so you always know what to do next.
Invest in your office space.
Investing in your home office doesn’t necessarily need to mean monetarily. One option for developing your workspace is just by designating a room specifically to it. If possible, a spare bedroom works well, but it can also be a portion of another room. The most important thing is having a quiet, clean, and reserved space just for work. This allows you to separate your normal home life from your time working. Once you have the space, you can develop your new office however makes it most comfortable for you. A good, supportive chair is the best place to start.
Keep in contact.
It’s easy to lose focus when you’re working from home. One method to avoid this is to schedule video conference meetings or phone calls regularly. Staying up to date on what’s happening in the office or with your colleagues lets you keep your to-do list current and relevant. It will also help you develop and maintain your working relationships, enhancing cohesion with your team or anyone else with whom you work in close concert.
Enjoy your flexibility.
One of the main benefits of working remotely is the ability to adjust your working hours if necessary. While it’s important to maintain a basic schedule, you can also improve your productivity by taking breaks. If you find yourself getting stuck on a project, stop. Go outside. Have a healthy snack. Do a quick household chore. After 15 to 20 minutes, come back and reassess the issue. This will also help prevent mental fatigue.
Whether you work remotely full-time or only on occasion, the goal should be to sustain the same level of efficiency you manage in the office. This list should help you avoid the common pitfalls, while staying engaged during the work week.
