Recent surveys have found that work from home (WFH) may become the new norm. In fact, many companies are taking the initiative to incorporate this arrangement into their business models. As such, your role as a team member will mean adjusting to the changes a home office presents.
While this may seem like a dream to many people, certain aspects of WFH setups need consideration. WFH may sometimes lull you into a false sense of security. Familiar faces and environments can make getting into the right mindset challenging. Ultimately, tackling these obstacles will require a little creativity and discipline.
Continue reading to learn about some clever and interesting tips to keep yourself focused and productive while working at home.
Invest In Tools
Although you work from home, your tools will relatively stay the same. Whether you use a personal computer or a company-designated one, investing in hardware and software is a quick way to ensure maximum productivity.
Older computer models may find it difficult to keep up with all the programs your work demands. Some companies may even require a dual-screen setup for specific tasks. Additionally, tasks, like file-sharing and sending your signature online, will mean secure connections and a wise investment.
Workers need the proper tools to deliver their best performance. The best hardware and software for your work can see significant increases in your productivity. Moreover, quick running tools can ensure a smoother shift.
Set Boundaries
Boundaries will be necessary while enjoying a WFH setup. Setting these expectations with your loved ones will help everyone understand your needs while on the clock.
For instance, children at home may find your presence exciting. So, they may wish to sit and engage with you throughout the day. However, this can come into conflict with your concentration. The same is true of your pets.
Ultimately, boundaries are a necessity. One way to create a boundary is to have a separate room as your workspace. Another helpful tip is to communicate this need with your partner or spouse. Taking turns in this matter can help everyone perform at their best.
Set All Devices To ‘Do Not Disturb’
Distractions at home aren’t limited to physical ones. Social media and the like can affect your productivity as well. Thus, practicing self-discipline and getting some help from loved ones are the keys to overcoming this challenge.
While it may be tempting to check on the latest updates or message a loved one, your work takes greater precedence. This can also land you in trouble, as companies can match the timestamps on your social media posts.
Therefore, you should set your mobile phone to ‘Do Not Disturb’ mode for the duration of your shift. This will significantly reduce the desire to check your phone. Furthermore, you can practice a phone deposit system with your loved ones for those needing an extra push. Only by finishing your shift or during breaks can you get it back.
Aside from using the ‘Do Not Disturb’ mode and adopting a phone deposit system, take advantage of web browsers that can block certain websites. This comes in handy during crucial work hours.
Whatever you need to stay focused and motivated while working from home is a step in the right direction.
Start The Day Right
Starting your shift the right way can do wonders for your motivation. While this applies to office jobs, this may prove even more relevant to WFH.
A healthy morning routine can include the following:
- Waking up when your alarm rings to prevent oversleeping
- Showering and changing into casual work clothes to help get you in the right headspace
- Eating a healthy breakfast to ensure an early burst of energy
- Doing some light exercises, like stretching and jogging, to keep your body moving, especially when your work means sitting on a chair for a long time
- Meditating in the morning or journal writing to help settle nerves and organize thoughts
Contrary to popular belief, WFH can still feel brand new and exciting every day. By engaging yourself throughout the day, you’re sure to keep the motivation for your loved ones at the end of your shift. Besides, starting the day right often means ending it in the same manner.
Seek Daily Exposure To Nature
Finding the time to expose yourself to natural beauty will become even more important while having a WFH setup. One benefit of commuting to the office is that it gives you an incentive to go out. A few minutes spent outside can have a plethora of benefits, both physically and mentally.
As mentioned earlier, going for a walk or a jog can be one way of achieving this. Planting a small garden in your yard will be a great idea too since it’ll be fun for the whole family. If space is an issue, your workroom can also become your home’s plant room.
Being surrounded by greenery is healthy. Taking the time away from your work desk to reconnect with nature will do you a world of good.
Conclusion
Adapting to changes is all part of having a job. But as your home presents particular challenges to productivity, the opportunities it offers vastly outnumber them. Following all these tips will help you improve your work performance and develop the right mindset to spend more quality time with your loved ones after clocking out.
