Working from home long-term can be a great boost to your productivity, as well as help with your well-being. It is vital to set up your home office and your routine to maximize this opportunity to work more effectively.
- Stick to a routine: Enter your home office at about the same time every day. Turn on lights, fire up your computer, get your coffee. Same goes for end-of-day. Wind it down, turn off the lights and computer and take a short walk outside before beginning your evening. If you need to change clothes before and after your work day, do so. These tips will help your mind transition from work time to personal time.
- Limit distractions: Designate certain times of your workday at home as focus times. Limit distractions like tv, phone, and social media to maximize productivity. Set boundaries with others in your home to respect these times, and shut your home office door if you have one.
- Make your office work for you: Design your space to make it as efficient and accommodating as possible. Whether you choose a standing desk, a lap desk, or a traditional desk, make sure everything you need for your work day is close by.
- Stay connected, but not too connected: Participate in company trainings and presentations. Meet a colleague for lunch. Or meet a few colleagues at a coffee shop or other location to collaborate occasionally if possible. After work hours, don’t check email or team chats.