As the world continues to fight off the coronavirus, many of us are staying home under shelter-in-place orders to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Many companies, like ours, have asked their employees to work from home until health officials declare it safe to return to the office and to our normal routine. Working from home is a new lifestyle that many are adjusting to, so we thought we’d share some tips for helping you stay productive (and sane!) from your new home office.
1. Start with a morning routine
Set yourself up for success by establishing a morning routine that helps you center yourself before the day starts. Instead of rolling out of bed and immediately opening up your laptop, spend some time with yourself in the morning. Make a cup of coffee or tea, do some light reading, or meditate for a few minutes. Whatever it is, find a morning routine that feels right for you.
2. Change out of your PJ’s
One of the perks of working from home is that, in some ways, you will probably feel more comfortable than you do at the office. But don’t get too comfy! Staying in your pajamas all day doesn’t help cultivate a “let’s get some work done” mindset. Like your morning routine, getting dressed each day is a little ritual that can help get you off to a good start.
3. Set up your workspace
As tempting as it might be to stay in bed all day, resist! Your productivity and your posture will thank you. Set up a dedicated workspace in your home that feels conducive to getting things done with minimal distractions. Separating your workspace from your relaxation place also helps you compartmentalize things mentally, keeping your work life and your personal life separate.
4. Schedule your breaks
When you’re working from home, it can be really easy to lose focus. You might find yourself procrastinating on a work task by staring at your phone or completing a chore. Take scheduled breaks throughout the day to encourage yourself to stay on task between these breaks. You’ll get more done and will feel rewarded when it’s me-time.
5. Communication is key
Working from home can make you feel disconnected from others in a new way, so take it upon yourself to over-communicate to your coworkers about updates, questions, or needs. When you have meetings, try to facilitate them on video chat rather than over the phone. Even though you’re all apart, for now, it will be good to see each other’s faces to feel like you’re still connected.
6. Stretch, exercise, and get moving
Inevitably, you’re going to do a lot of sitting around both during work and after work. Make sure to get that blood flowing whenever you can. Take some time to get a much-needed stretch or do a few simple exercises. You can do this first thing in the morning, midday, or after you sign off in the afternoon. Even a few minutes each day makes a big difference.
7. Get some fresh air
At least once a day, make it a point to get some fresh air! When you work and live in the same place every day, you might start to feel confined in your own home. Getting some fresh air can help clear your mind and invigorate your spirit. If you can go outside for a quick walk, go for it! If not, take a breather in your yard or on your balcony. Opening a window can help, too.
Incorporating these tips can help you stay motivated throughout the workday, but it’s also important to find a routine that works for you. Whatever that is, make the most of working from home and stay productive and inspired.
