Working from home used to be uncommon, but recently it became the only option for most people. Though some areas of the world are returning to normality, many companies have switched to a hybrid model, or are continuing to have employees solely work from home.
For some, working from home may be preferable. For others, it may be a struggle, but this doesn’t have to be the case. Here are 5 ways to make working from home work for you:
Set your workspace
Having the right, focused atmosphere around you can greatly influence your work ethic. If you’re working from your bed, or with the TV on in the background, you may feel unfocused.
Having a desk is a great way to be more productive. This may not be possible for everyone, but even sitting somewhere like a dining table with proper back support and space can work wonders.
Separating your home life from your work life is ideal, so try to minimise distractions. Clear out a room or a corner and turn it into your dedicated workspace, when the day is over, move to another room or area.
If you’re in the process of moving, take into consideration that you may be working from home. Having a designated office space is always preferable to the kitchen table or, worse, the bedroom. Fortunately, property developers today are taking this into account and housing developments like these new homes in Gateshead offer properties that perfectly fit the bill.
Keep your routine
Ensuring that your work and leisure doesn’t blur is essential for avoiding burnout. Though it’s easy to think you can work in bed or take a longer lunch, it’ll be harmful to you in the long run.
Routine is more important than ever when there’s no one enforcing it. A good tip is to act like you’re still going to work in person. Get up, take the dog for a walk, take a shower and get dressed. If you’re maintaining a schedule for working, it’ll be easier to distinguish your work from your home life.
Minimise your distractions
If you don’t have a separate room, or you live with other people, it can be easy to become entranced by what other people are doing. When you’re working from the office, you don’t have anything to derail your workflow.
Even little things such as closing the door and turning off the TV will create a more studious atmosphere. Creating a to-do list or a schedule will help you stay on task so that you can remain focused.
Communicate with others
Communication is always key. Spending hours on Zoom meetings may be hard, but having a problem with your work when you’re home alone can be isolating.
Ensure that you’re communicating with your boss and colleagues, and don’t be afraid to contact them if working from home isn’t for you. You may be able to come to an agreement where you’re able to work from the office part-time, but you’ll never know if you don’t try.
Communicating with the people you live with is also important. If you can’t be disturbed or you need quiet, politely ask them not to disturb you while you’re working.
Have the right equipment
Changing from an office with the newest equipment or up-to-date technology for your job may feel impossible. But for most people, it’s doable.
There are exceptions depending on your profession, but if you’re able to invest in a few pieces to make your home office more like a professional workspace, it’s certainly worthwhile.
As mentioned earlier, having a desk is the first step to more productivity. Next is to look into a good desk chair, preferably one that provides you with good back support. After this, depending on the work you do, you may need a tablet, a printer or a second screen for your computer.
