Do's & Dont's Guide While Working From Home | 2020
So we have come to a point in American society where many adults, kids, seniors and alike are being assimilated into a rather uneasy form of separation.
For some, the solitude is long desired and many introverts who identify with enjoying their alone time are now living that reality as they work from home.
The recent #Coronavirus or #COVID-19 outbreak has many of us uneasy about the future of our society, let alone our jobs. As larger & mid-sized businesses move into a work-from-home policy to proactively prevent any possible spread of the virus into their workplaces, the adjustment will be tough for some. Is this real? How do I stay focused for these 8hrs a day? When do i take breaks? ...These are just a few of the questions I have seen circulating on social media.
Luckily I have been blessed in my recent roles, to have the flexibility to work from home at least 2 days out of the week (and now full time work from home due to the crisis). As someone who loves the outdoors and nature, I always found myself taking advantage of this while working from home. I would encourage you, first & foremost to have a designated workspace. Maybe it's your loft that has good natural light, or maybe it's your kitchen table.
Check out our list of our Top 3 Do's & Don'ts while Working from Home
Do:
1. Create a routine!
You will be amazed how this keeps you productive throughout the day!
When we think of routines, we usually think of structured orders that we are expected to do to help a goal be accomplished. Creating a routine gives ease as it relates to your focus. Many will say "no, I don't need a routine." However studies have shown, maintaining structure allows for consistency in your schedule-preventing distractions that are bound to disturb your work flow. One Twitter user tweeted : "Get fully ready for the day and pretend you're actually going to work. Otherwise, you might find yourself back in bed."
Start by getting out of your bed to work, by getting dressed, exercising or eating (Or all three!). It creates a rhythm although your staying inside. Another helpful tip for your routine; creating a to-do list each day. Some call these S.M.A.R.T. goals. Specific, measurable, attainable, realistic & time bound. Set & maintain these goals daily to increase productivity.
2. Schedule Breaks
Many people believe because you work from home, you should be glued to your desk or "bed" all day. This is a recipe for disater that usually comes in the form of "Burnout". Psychologist classify Burnout as "Feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion; Increased mental distance from one's job, or feelings of negativism or cynicism related to one's job; and reduced professional efficacy". The same could be said for those of us who take advantage of having a phone in hand to periodically check our social media feeds. When you schedule breaks, it should encompass you removing yourself from your work, allowing you to eat lunch/ check on your parents & siblings etc. Be conscientious not to get stuck surfing your news feed for the latest Instagram memes that we all love.
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3. Be Patient!
Lastly, remember to be self aware, practice patience with yourself. As we face these difficult circumstances head on, it's important we keep our spirits high and focus strong! Do not beat up on yourself about the "unknown" and "what if's". Take this time to get closer to yourself, your family or spouse. Many of us are so consumed with the day to day of life we seldom have time to enjoy its beauty. It's quite interesting how perspective works. During this world-wide pandemic we have been forced on becoming more reflective on what has/is occurring in society. We've been forced to "pay attention" for the first time in a long time as a nation. This can become frustrating at times, don't let your confined spaces stunt your creativity or productivity!
Don't:
1. Watch News All Day Long
I believe we are all unique and that's our power. What works for some may not work for others. It's crucial you stay "in -tune" with who you are and what's going on around you. For many, the recent events have caused a great deal of anxiety. Guard your mind against the uncertainty the news can bring by limiting your exposure to 2x a day. I recommend once when you wake up and once before you end your night. By doing so you will remain informed, productive, and in control of your day! Many times when we watch the news it changes our mood. Guard against any urge to read the latest news, Facebook post or replying to your Aunt Jackie, while focused on your day.
2. Sit in the House All Day
Working from home has its ups & downs. For many millennials this is the first time you have been expected to work from home. The biggest downside & don't is sitting in your house all day! This can be sometimes be easier to do than you may expect. With the million things you are tackling at work. You can feel drained & fatigued at the end of the day. Avoid "cabin fever" by ensuring your mobility and enjoying the nature around you. Studies have shown spending time with nature outdoors can help lower stress and relax/ recharge your mind. I recommend a walk around your neighborhood or local trail is a good way to unwind after a long day.
3. Hesitate to Ask for Help!
Dont use working from home as an excuse to not stay in touch with your peers, employees you may manage or resources that support your day to day. Having a strong presence while working from home will be a huge part of your success. It may unknowingly help your communication skills by developing a clear and confident speaking voice due to the ongoing digital communication with clients & colleague. Unsure if your emails are grammatically correct ? download helpful tools such as Grammerly to catch any errors that could make you appear less than professional.
Working remote can have its technical challenges as well; VPN set up, WiFi, virtual computer machines, remote access etc. but staying in close communication with IT and your manger allows for immediate support. Don't hesitate to use your own technical skills as well, many companys with emoloyees offer work from home tips and processes to guide you. Remember, information is essential to your success. Sometimes this information will not be right in front of you as it would when your in the office, so doing a little research upfront could save you countless hours.