7 tips for working from home

Establishing new routines or creating new habits are more important than ever to help us maintain a healthy work life balance as many of us juggle working from home with family responsibilities. These 7 tips can help you maintain productivity while keeping sane.

Set a daily routine

Take a shower and get dressed at your usual work day time, perhaps wear something you would normally wear to work to help you get in the right mindset. Set strict start and finish times and stick to them.

Schedule breaks

Make sure you stop and take a break for lunch. Let your manager know when you will be off-line, for a bite to eat, take the dog for a walk or help your child with their study. Don’t feel guilty about this!  You will need to create a balance of work and rest to be more productive.

Set ground rules for the family

Consider wearing headphones to show others in your home that you need to concentrate and cannot be disturbed. If you enjoy listening to music, consider music without lyrics; this will be less distracting and therefore won’t affect your focus.

Avoid work creep

Pack up your workspace at the end of the day. Compiling a ‘to-do’ list for the next day can help you close your day and switch off. Resting your brain and body is important to recharge and reset for the next day.

Down days are to be expected

Working from home can make you feel more disconnected from others. You will need to be creative in the ways that can stay connected. Live phone calls, zoom catch-ups, or even instant messaging with friends and colleagues can help.

Watch your food intake

Be mindful of what you are eating.  The pantry may be a whole lot closer than normal but maintaining a balanced diet will be important to keep you going throughout the day. Also, remember to stay hydrated. Dehydration can affect brain function, mood and energy levels, which is not what you want.

Keep moving

Staying active is critical for your mental wellbeing right now. Take the time to exercise each day. By increasing blood flow to the brain, you will feel more alert and boost your energy levels.

Working from is not without its challenges. Understanding what works for you, and what doesn’t, will increase the likelihood of making it a success. What’s more, you will find yourself in a much better place in terms of your overall health and wellbeing.

Brought to you by Brighton Grammar School