How to Work From Home: 6 Essential Productivity Hacks (Covid-19 Edition)
Before the spread of COVID-19 (Coronavirus), many of us hadn’t dreamed of a world where we’d be stuck at home, working remote. These last few months have felt like a crazy roller coaster of unknowns, to say the least.
Businesses have shut down, the economy came to a halt, friends and family members have gotten sick, millions of people have been laid off, and companies all over the world have implemented new work-from-home policies.
Now, a few months into this global pandemic, communities all over the world have felt the impact in vastly different ways. While some areas are still in the thick of it, others are slowly beginning to feel a sense of normalcy.
Whatever the case, we recognize employees and businesses are navigating unique challenges, stressors, and dare we say, opportunities?
Whether you’re a telecommuter, freelancer, or small business like us, it’s imperative to create a productive and balanced work environment. These hacks and strategies helped us get back on track and start enjoying our newfound flexibility.
1. Dedicate a work space and make it your own
Set up an office and tailor it to your needs. Make it fun and comfortable with as few distractions as possible. This is your opportunity to make your office exactly how you want it. Taking the time to set it up and make it your own will do wonders for your mental health and your productivity.
Whether you live in a studio apartment or a big house, focus on dedicating a specific room or surface you can associate work with. Whatever you do, don’t make it your couch. Setting clear boundaries between your work and home life can make all the difference.
2. Have the right equipment
Now’s not the time to skimp on equipment that you’re used to. In fact, it’s more important than ever to have the right equipment and working environment. If you can, grab your monitors, headphones, an ergonomic chair, and office materials that help you stay productive. Make sure your wifi is up to snuff and supports your current work needs. If you’re anything like us, leaving the office for your at-home workspace is a big enough change as is. Don’t make it harder.
3. Pace Yourself - It’s a marathon not a sprint
Cutting out commute time, coffee breaks, lunch hours, and those inevitable 10-minute hallway chats took up more time than we thought. Without all the in-person distractions, it can be easier to stay focused.
But it’s also easy to burn out.
Your work week is a marathon, not a sprint. If your calendar is full of meetings, deadlines and tasks, it should also include scheduled breaks. Give yourself a few 5-10 minute breaks throughout the day. Treat yourself to a long lunch, go for a walk, or read a few chapters in a good book. Find things that’ll help you decompress throughout the day - your brain and boss will thank you later
4. Dress as if you were going into the office, but more comfortably
Full-blown business attire probably isn’t necessary while working from home, but it is important to have a routine every morning and to get ready and dressed for a productive day. Finding comfortable clothing you can work in is imperative to a successful workday. As t-shirt connoisseurs, we feel particularly strongly about this. Check out our article “Ditch the Suit and Tie: Our 5 Essential Work-From-Home Clothing Picks” for a full list of ideas.
5. Get out and about
It’s easy to get overstimulated with all the news, online meetings, phone calls and computer time. Plus, without your normal commute, there are less reasons to get out and about. Taking mindful breaks that help you to step away from your at-home office bubble can do wonders for productivity.
Plan on going for a walk before or after work, do some light (or heavy) physical activity, or make yourself a quick picnic for lunch. Finding activities that force you to get some much-needed fresh air will help you recharge and refocus.
6. Start a virtual club or weekly game night
When you work from home, there are fewer opportunities for social interactions. Once you’ve found your groove and have mastered productivity, it’s time to get social.
Start a virtual club or a weekly game night with coworkers or friends. Plan something you can look forward to that creates a sense of normalcy and fun. Making time for people who make you feel connected and sane will boost your job satisfaction, happiness and overall productivity.
Pro Tip: Get creative and create a custom designed shirt for your next club, game night or happy hour squad.
Working from home can feel isolating and stressful at times, especially if you’re accustomed to an in-person office culture. But, if you stick with it and focus on boosting productivity and a balanced work week, things will turn around. Who knows? You might even start enjoying the autonomy and flexibility of your new schedule. We know we have!
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Interested in a custom designed shirt for your team or friends?
Contact us at info@globalthreadsllc.com or visit our website at https://www.globalthreadsllc.com/.