The 2020 coronavirus pandemic has caused many businesses to relocate operations remotely to decrease health risks. As a result, many professionals all over the world have had to figure out an entirely new way to work.
With kids at home and stress levels high, it can be difficult to find some peace and quiet, let alone actually get some work done. While we can’t help you hide from your kids, these tips will help you increase your effectiveness while working from home.
Create a dedicated workspace.
Set up a dedicated workspace in your home where you can sit comfortably. A room with a door is great for locking out unwanted “coworkers”, but the kitchen table will work if you have nowhere else. Your bare-minimum requirements are a stable, flat surface and a good light.
If you’re someone who can, try to limit all your work to this one area. By only completing work in your makeshift “office”, you’ll be able to create a better work-life balance, even when the lines are so blurred right now.
Stand up and move around if you need to.
In the office, your day would be broken up by lots of distractions. All those bathroom breaks, quick snacks, and trips to your coworkers’ desks really add up. Don’t expect yourself to work 8 hours straight at home either. Build in a break for lunch and try to be disciplined about actually taking it.
When you start hitting a 2 pm slump, instead of brewing another cup of coffee, stand up and do a lap. A quick walk or even some light exercises will get your blood pumping and creativity flowing.
End your day.
Now that you don’t leave the office at the end of the day, it can be hard to create a separation from your work and personal life. Once you’re done for the day, toss your phone on the charger in another room and resist the urge to constantly check email. Your job will still be there tomorrow. (And the next however many months we’re in quarantine.)
If you find yourself struggling, ask your spouse to hold you accountable to not doing work tasks after 6 pm. It might not seem like a big deal, but setting a hard barrier can be immensely beneficial for your mental health.
Give yourself grace.
We’re going through a lot right now. A pandemic, a recession, sky-high unemployment rates, uncertainty all around. You deserve grace. Don’t get down on yourself for not being as productive as you may have been in the office. Be patient and forgiving with yourself. And, if you find yourself struggling, don’t be afraid to take some time off.