Although the Covid-19 restrictions will be easing in the coming weeks, for the first time in our careers many of us find ourselves working from home for the foreseeable future. Adjusting to a new work environment takes time and can be challenging.
In this post, we’ll be looking at some top tips and strategies for working from home effectively so that you can make the most of your working day in a stress-free way!
Create a routine that works for you
Having a daily routine on working days will help you to stay focused and complete tasks efficiently. Try to wake up at the same time each day and shower and change your clothes in the morning. You’d be surprised how easy it is to jump straight into work in your pajamas (we’ve all done it!), but even putting on some clean comfy sweatpants or your favorite cosy jumper will set you properly for the day and help you switch into work mode. If you have the option, fixed working hours that suit you. Some people do their finest work in the mornings, while others take a little bit longer to get going. Find out what works best for you.
Set boundaries and limit distractions during work hours
If you share your living space with others, it’s important to set clear boundaries regarding interruptions to your working day. Make it clear to those around you (kids included!) that you are not to be disturbed during the work hours you have set for yourself. If you can, set up your desk or office in a quiet area or a room with a closed door. Limit your time on social networking and news sites during working hours and avoid procrastinating with housework or other odd jobs about the house- they can wait! Finally, set boundaries for yourself. This is not the time to burn-out and compromise your health and well-being, so try not to let working from home mean working all day and night. Know when to call time on the working day and give yourself permission to switch off.
Have an organised, clutter-free workspace
A clutter-free, organized desk and workspace is essential for creating a calm and stress-free environment for working from home. Make sure that the space you choose is just for work-related activities and work documents/equipment- last night’s dinner plates or piles of laundry do not belong in your work area! Spend some time choosing nice storage equipment and organising your files and work things. Adding some personal touches to your space (such as a nice picture, photographs or fresh flowers) will make it that little bit easier to sit down at your desk in the morning. If you are overwhelmed with clutter and your current space is simply not big enough to accommodate all of your stuff, consider using some of our personal or business storage solutions. There are options to suit everyone, with flexible contracts and 7-day access available: http://www.nesta.ie/size-guide/
Enjoy the perks of working from home.
Working from home is an opportunity to create a working day that suits you and your preferences, without having to stick to the rigid rules and limitations that often come with a more structured office environment. Embrace it! Make yourself a decadent lunch, set up your office in the garden on sunnier days, and work on your tan or listen to music and podcasts while you do more mundane tasks (we like the Marie Kondo’ Spark Joy’ podcast for great organising and storage-related advice!
However, as we exit lockdown and restrictions lift you just might just find yourself looking for a change of scenery if working from home isn’t a suitable longterm solution. Take a look at our office rentals with flexible options tailored to suit your needs and preferences.
