A five year work from home veteran offers her best advice on how to stay productive and positive during these uncertain times. In theory working from home can sound dreamy: roll out of bed, open your laptop, work from the comfort of your own home on your own schedule. In reality, many remote employees struggle with a lack of human interaction, structure, and setting boundaries between work and regular life.
As many more of us will face these struggles each day, with the added stress of the COVID-19 pandemic, these WFH strategies may help make a difference. First things first, it is recommended to maintain your morning routine. This means waking up around the same time, showering, and getting dressed – even in comfy loungewear – to create a sense of purpose and start your day off as though you were heading into the office. If you are a morning workout person, it is a good idea to continue this habit prior to logging on to work. Exercise in general will help boost your mind and body, counteracting the inactivity that comes with working from home. Since most gyms and studios are closed down, you could step outside for a socially isolated walk or run, or join others who are tuning in to live stream workouts being offered by gyms and trainers. Like you might clear space in your living room for a workout circuit, you also want to dedicate a space to working, if you don’t have an office room available in your home. This can be a breakfast nook or corner of your living room where you have access to a strong internet connection, good lighting, comfortable seating, and any supplies you need. Mimicking your usual set up at home allows you to mentally separate your work space and time from your regular life space and time.
Other helpful tips include regularly practicing self-care, setting and keep realistic expectations for yourself, and communicating your needs with others. To continue learning about these tips and tricks and how to be productive while staying sane throughout this unknown time period, visit here.
