Working from Home
Here are some of our top tips for mental health and productivity for home working:
Create your own working space
Whether it’s your spare room or home office, create a workstation that is separate to your normal living area
Be ready for action! Make sure you have all of your work necessities: laptop, charger, mouse, headset, notes, physical assets, comfy chair etc
Separate yourself from any distractions – save that Netflix series for the breaks
Set ground rules and make sure that family members identify and respect your workspace and the privacy you need – not sure kids respect boundaries but you can but try!
Play some tunes or have the radio on in the background
Don’t have the mobile phone glued to your ear – it’ll give you a headache
To speed up your internet try disconnecting devices like Alexa, Google Home and Home Automation Bridges like Nest & Hive
To get a better internet connection, try plugging directly into the broadband router instead of using WiFi - this will limit interference and network drops
Take advantage of this time
Set yourself core working hours where you will not be disturbed and stick to them, e.g. 9-12, 2-5
Change out of your pyjamas. It has a psychological impact!
Stick to your routine; if you like grabbing a morning coffee on your way to work or stretching your legs at lunch time, make the time to keep this up
Have a clear plan for the day ahead and set objectives – don’t forget to congratulate yourself when these are achieved
Be Healthy (Body & Mind)
Find time to do something that physically exerts you, whether it’s yoga, a gym session, some simple stretches or even a few repetitions of the stairs
Open the curtains and windows to make sure your working space has plenty of natural light and fresh air
Plan regular breaks in your day for refreshments, comfort and social interaction
Isolation can be tough – keep in regular contact with your manager and colleagues by replacing emails with calls and video calls, as well as making time to interact with friends and family