Have you started working from home due to the COVID-19 pandemic? If so, here are some tips to be productive and healthy with this new model of work.
What will I need to work from home?
While working from home, you will need to stay connected to your employer and colleagues through video calls, email and other software. For this, make sure you have a good internet connection. Additionally, a fast computer or tablet will be useful, since most of your work will be done on this. If your current device is slow, you can try speeding it up (tips for Mac and Windows) or investing in a new device.
I have my computer ready. What next?
Once you have good internet and a computer in place, try setting up a designated workspace. This should be somewhere you do not engage in other activities, like sleeping or eating (so avoid working on your bed or in the kitchen). This way your brain will associate this space only with work.
If you have a spare room or living area, create your workspace here, ideally near some natural light. If this is not possible, pick a specific corner of your bedroom and set up here. Since you’ll be spending many hours here, make it comfortable. Keep it away from distractions like the TV, books, etc., and avoid clutter by tidying up regularly.
Having a designated workspace creates boundaries between your work and personal life. Otherwise, it is possible that they will creep into each other, keeping you from fully engaging with both.
While working from home, I have more freedom with my time. How should I plan my day?
Working from home makes you less bound to the schedule of your office. You will have to coordinate meetings with colleagues, but work you do alone can be done at a time convenient to you, as long as you meet your deadlines.
However, just like you should create a divide between your work space and personal space, you should also create boundaries between time for work and leisure. Humans benefit from good routines, which improve productivity and reduce stress. Plan your proper morning routine, work hours, lunch and other breaks, and the end-of-day, and stick to it.
Of course, be flexible where necessary. But remember, the freedom to control your schedule should create convenience, not confusion.
What else should I keep in mind to work well and stay healthy?
When working from home, you won’t be going out as much as you would have if working in an office. This can have negative effects. Sitting in one place all day increases your risk of multiple diseases, including cancers and heart disease. Going outdoors and getting some exercise, on the other hand, has proven benefits for your mental and physical health. So, make sure to take breaks where you move around, go for walks outdoors (while maintaining social distancing) and stay active during your day.
Also maintain a healthy diet while working from home. Eat balanced meals at proper times and remain hydrated. Though your kitchen is nearby, avoid the temptation to frequently snack and consume too much caffeine. This will keep your energy levels consistent, and help you remain healthy.
Constantly looking at electronic screens for work or being on video calls can be exhausting and have negative health effects. To avoid this, take breaks and minimise your screen time after work.
Are there any tools that can help me as I work from home?
Yes! Though technology can be distracting (especially social media), it can also make work easier. To prevent distractions online, you can install extensions that block these sites for fixed periods of time. You can use calendar apps to schedule your day and stay on track. To reduce fatigue from excessive screen usage, install blue-light filters on your devices.
Any final tips?
While your virtual engagement with colleagues will be more focussed, check in with them informally as well. Workplace socialisation is still important to create a happy atmosphere. Also find people to engage with in person, whether family or friends, while taking required precautions. Interactions like these improve mental and physical health, which is especially important during the pandemic.