A change to your work location can be an adjustment. Some people are working from home as a choice or due to career change, but many are suddenly at home a result of the nation's response to the COIVD-19 pandemic. There are benefits and challenges to working home.
Going from a career in the oil field industry to real estate challenged me to adapt to a new work environment and over time established a routine that works for me.
HERE ARE A FEW TIPS THAT HAVE WORKED FOR ME:
1. As simple as it sounds, it is very important to have a routine.
- Get up at the same time every day.
- Get ready like you are heading out to the office- Get Dressed!
- Of course, ditch the uncomfortable office clothes; wear what you are comfortable in. Just don't stay in your pajamas (that you slept in) all day.
- Eat breakfast away from your workspace.
2. Have a dedicated work area.
- A clutter-free organized workspace helps you focus and find what you need.
3. Set goals of what you want to accomplish daily.
- Make the goals realistic and keep track in case your employer needs to see your work performance while at home.
4. Take breaks away from your workspace.
- A walk during lunchtime or getting up to stretch can refocus your attention and clear your head.
- If you enjoy using break time to check out social media, set a timer. It is easy to get caught scrolling for longer than you intended. I am guilty thanks to TIK TOK!
6. Have the number or email to your company IT support team.
- It can be challenging to learn new ways to communicate or using different software; the IT support team can help you remotely.
5. Connect with your colleagues throughout the week.
- Working from home may be a dream for some, but for others, feelings of isolation or loneliness can be problematic.
- A quick email, text, instant message or video conference can keep your team connected, on task and motivated.
7. Have a dedicated start and finish time.
- It is easy to extend your workday while at home, set work hours helps ensure you are productive during work time and available for outside of work commitments.
6. Find the positives of working from home and focus on them.
- No commute, no bagged lunches, time for a morning workout before the workday starts, and enjoy mealtimes with the family. It is easy to focus on the hard and difficult things the pandemic brings. Reflecting on good things can help your frame of mind and productivity.
Hopefully, these tips will help structure your day and ease you into a new routine working from home.
Comment below on how your transition to working from home is going, what is working for you and what you are enjoying about your new work arrangement.
Stay well!