Work from home like a pro
Has social distancing left you working remotely? Here’s seven easy strategies to boost productivity.
by Melissa Meier, Marketing and Communications Assistant, Dietitian Connection
The global pandemic that is Covid-19 means home is the new workplace for many. But Work from home like a pro Has social distancing left you working remotely? Here’s seven easy strategies to boost productivity. if you’re a newbie to WFH (working from home), the lack of structure and loneliness can be pretty tricky to navigate – and leave you feeling demotivated and unproductive if you’re not careful. To help get you through it, here’s seven strategies that make WFH a breeze.
1. Keep to office hours
Going to work isn’t just about your physical presence in the office – the routine that comes along with it is of utmost importance. Of course, WFH gives you the flexibility and freedom to do things you couldn’t do if you were physically in the office (think: put on a load of washing) – but sticking to office hours as much as possible will really help to shift your mindset and set you up for WFH success.
2. Get into ‘work mode’
It can be nice to skip the morning makeup routine, but when you’re WFH, you should still brush your hair and get out of your pyjamas as you would when you’re going into work. A corporate dress or suit isn’t necessary, but clothing that will make you feel on task is a wise idea. Goodbye slippers!
“…boost productivity with a short stretching break or a trip to your kitchen to brew a homemade cuppa every hour.”
3. Have a dedicated working space
Create a work-only zone away from the lounge, bedroom and kitchen bench. Having a dedicated workspace will help you to associate that specific location with work – you won’t be tempted to flick on the television to catch up on last night’s episode of your favourite program or open the fridge just because you can! Another bonus is that once you shut down your computer and leave your workstation at the end of the day, it’ll be easier to get back into ‘home mode’.
4. Take regular breaks
When you’re in the office, it’s easy to strike up a conversation with a colleague at the water cooler or head outside for five minutes to grab a coffee – but when you’re WFH, these opportunities are few and far between. Instead, boost productivity with a short stretching break or a trip to your kitchen to brew a homemade cuppa every hour.
5. Stay Connected
When you’re working remotely, communication is key. A quick phone call with your manager to start and end the day is a great strategy, as is regular team catchups via Zoom or Skype. To create a new sense of belonging, you could even organise lunch or a coffee break via video conference to cover the usual office chitchat, or a virtual Friday afternoon pizza party to keep up the camaraderie.
6. Get some fresh air…
Cabin fever is real when WFH. To make it a little easier, set yourself up in a space with natural light and a window that you can open for fresh air. Make sure you get outside at some point during the day, too, even if it’s just to sit on your balcony or walk the dog around the block.
“…help to shift your mindset and set you up for WFH success.”
7. Exercise Regularly
WFH might shake up your usual routine, but you should still schedule in a little ‘me time’ to get your heart and muscles pumping each day. Not only is regular exercise good for your physical health, but your mental health, too – so at a time when stress and anxiety is at all all-time high, exercise could be the key to keeping your sanity in check.
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