How to be productive at home!
Tips for WFH
So as we’re settling in to our new routines and the new ‘normal’, figuring out how to work from home can be quite a difficult task. Trying to work productively however, is another story in itself…
When you’re so used to working in an office, outside in an active job, or in a completely different environment altogether, having to adjust to working from your bedroom or lounge can take some work. This doesn’t even include trying to work around children, parents, siblings or the dog bugging you to go out 3 times a day.
The important thing to know is that we’re all in the same position – we saw a quote that stuck out to us about the current situation;
“you’re not working from home. You’re at home, trying to work”.
The lifestyle we’re all experiencing right now is completely unusual. It’s not ‘normal’ for anyone, let alone healthy in terms of mentally and physically, as we’re limited to a small space and even fewer people! However, we have to make the best out of a bad situation and try to be as productive as possible. So, to try and help, here are our top tips:
- Show Up
You wouldn’t dream of strolling into work at 11am, so don’t start now - make sure you show up! Ensure you’re at your designated ‘desk’ area by a certain time so you’re in the right mindset to start the day. Try and mimic your usual routine as much as possible; this may be getting dressed into an outfit that fits your frame of mind better to work, or making a cup of tea for your desk at 9am so you can sit down and crack on!
- Have your own space
It can be really important to have your own space when it comes to working from home if you’re surrounded by other people. Avoid fighting over WFH space by choosing an area of the house that you work well in and stick to that area each day. Set up your workstation each morning and tidy it away at night. The most important thing here though is to have boundaries with family members or friends you live with. You can do this by setting aside time for lunch with them, or telling them the hours you don’t want to be disturbed so that you are able to get some work done without any distractions.
- Get some fresh air!
In appliance with the government’s lockdown rules, we’re allowed to exercise outside once a day with a member of our household. It’s really important to make the most of this time to switch off from work, shut down your screens and enjoy the fresh air and nature. This can be a really good time to clear your head and relax for a while.
- Exercise!
Whether yoga is your thing or you’re usually at the gym 5 days a week, there is still work to be done at home! Despite not having the usual workout environments, there are so many online workouts that can be done from the comfort of your living room. Exercise during these times is so important – it gives you time to switch off, release those happy hormones and feel great after!
- Take breaks
This is really important! We’re working in such unusual environments, it’s a lot to ask to sit at your screen all day and be as focused as you usually are, but it can be done! Take regular breaks, even if it’s just to make a quick cup of tea and stretch your legs.
- Don’t be hard on yourself
You aren’t going to be super productive, 24/7, 5 days a week. If you work through without a break, you may find your work slacks and your productivity levels actually drop. By taking regular breaks and mixing your tasks up so there is variety, you can stay focused and motivated to get all your work done! If you’re not feeling it and you’re finding yourself stuck in a rut, take a break, chat to a friend or go for a short walk – you may find that your inspiration comes back shortly after!
Just one last thing to add – don’t feel pressured by people on social media who look like they’re working out 5 times a day or being a domestic goddess and baking all the banana bread after having cleaned the house to an inch of its life. In reality, you haven’t washed your hair in a week and your nail beds suck (10 points for the movie quote). It’s enough that we’re all surviving and getting through these challenging times so just try your best to stay positive, safe and healthy!