In the past few weeks, everyday life has changed dramatically across the globe. Suddenly, businesses are temporarily shut down, we’re all being told to stay home as much as possible, and it seems like every minute of news coverage is dedicated to covering the COVID-19 outbreak. Life will return to normal at some point in the future, but for now, we’re all having to make some adjustments, including working from home. Working from home sounds great at first, but it can be difficult to focus and get all of your work done. Never fear- we’ve got some helpful tips to help you make the most of working from home.
Set Up a Dedicated Work Space
One of the most important things you can do when working from home is to set up a dedicated work space. Experts advise not working from your bed, as this can make it harder to focus on your work as well as making it hard to sleep at night. If you have a quiet room in your house where you can set up a desk, it’d be a good idea to do so. Make sure there are minimal distractions. If you don’t have an extra room, that’s okay! Just make sure you have one specific space in which you can work.Your kitchen table, a desk in your living room- anything will work, so long as you can minimize distractions.
Maintain a Routine
When you’re working from home, it’s tempting to wake up late and stay in your pajamas all day. It’s okay to do this once in a while, but not every day. Maintaining a routine is one of the best ways to keep your focus and a sense of normalcy in an abnormal situation. Try to wake up and go to bed at the same time every day (or at least every work day). Establish a schedule for yourself. For example, if you normally work a 9-5 day, try waking up at 8:30 to have some breakfast and get ready for the day, start working at 9 as you usually do, and close your computer at 5. Try not to let your work bleed into your personal time too much- just because you are working from home doesn’t mean you can’t still have a work-life balance. Don’t forget to take a break now and then throughout the day as well, just like you would on a normal workday. If you don’t work through lunch at the office, then don’t do it at home. Get up now and then to stretch and walk around your home, drink some water, etc.
Communicate Frequently With Coworkers
Be sure to utilize tools such as Slack to communicate with your coworkers. Not only do you need to communicate about projects and such, keeping in touch with coworkers can help relieve some of the loneliness and isolation that comes with the current stay-at-home orders. Zoom and GoToMeeting are great tools for connecting with your coworkers and clients. If you and your coworkers normally go out for a drink on Fridays, try a virtual happy hour instead! Be creative and communicative.
Be Patient With Yourself
Working from home is a big adjustment if you’re not used to it. Be patient and give yourself time to adjust. Don’t be afraid to ask your boss and coworkers questions, and don’t be too hard on yourself if you’re finding it difficult to get used to your new normal. Things will settle down and you’ll get used to working from home. Be sure that you’re taking care of yourself and your family, and you’ll find that it gets easier every day.
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