WFH, or working from home, has become increasingly common in recent years. With the COVID-19 pandemic forcing many companies to adopt remote work as a means of maintaining social distancing, the number of people working from home has risen exponentially.
While WFH can be a great opportunity to increase productivity and decrease commuting time, it can also present some unique challenges. In this article, we’ll explore some tips for staying focused at work and relaxed at home when working remotely.
Establish a routine
One of the benefits of working from home is the flexibility it provides. However, it’s important to establish a routine to help you stay on track and avoid distractions. This can include setting a regular start and end time, scheduling breaks throughout the day, and planning out your work for the week. Creating a routine can help you stay focused on your work and avoid the temptation to procrastinate or get sidetracked by household chores.
Create a designated workspace
It’s important to have a dedicated workspace when working from home. This can help you mentally switch into work mode and avoid distractions. Ideally, your workspace should be separate from your living space, such as a home office or a designated corner of a room. Make sure your workspace is comfortable, well-lit, and has all the necessary equipment you need to be productive.
Minimize distractions
When working from home, distractions can be a major challenge. This can include everything from household chores to social media notifications. To minimize distractions, try to work in a quiet and clutter-free environment. You can also use apps and browser extensions to block social media and other time-wasting websites during work hours.
Take breaks
Taking regular breaks throughout the day can help you stay focused and productive. This can include short breaks to stretch or walk around, as well as longer breaks for lunch or exercise. Taking breaks can also help you avoid burnout and improve your overall wellbeing.
Stay connected
Working from home can sometimes feel isolating, especially if you’re used to working in an office environment. To stay connected with colleagues and maintain a sense of community, try to schedule regular check-ins and video meetings. This can help you stay up-to-date with team projects and provide a sense of social interaction.
Communicate with others in your househol
If you’re sharing your living space with other people, it’s important to communicate your work schedule and boundaries. This can include letting others know when you’re working and when you’re available for socializing or household chores. Communicating with others in your household can help you avoid interruptions and distractions.
Get outside
When working from home, it’s easy to spend all day inside. However, it’s important to get outside and get some fresh air and exercise. This can include taking a walk during your lunch break or doing some outdoor activities after work. Getting outside can help improve your mood and overall wellbeing.
Manage your time effectively
When working from home, it’s important to manage your time effectively. This can include setting goals and priorities for the day, using time-blocking to schedule your work, and avoiding multitasking. By managing your time effectively, you can stay focused and avoid the temptation to procrastinate.
Practice self-care
Finally, it’s important to practice self-care when working from home. This can include getting enough sleep, eating healthy, and engaging in regular exercise. Self-care can also include taking time to relax and unwind after work, such as reading a book or taking a bath. By prioritizing self-care, you can improve your overall wellbeing and reduce stress and burnout.
Working from home can be a great opportunity to increase productivity and reduce commuting time. However, it’s important to establish a routine, create a dedicated workspace, minimize distractions, take breaks, stay connected, communicate with others in your household, get outside, manage