With remote working becoming the new norm and popular among employees all over the world, building a routine can be a bit difficult. Staying in the comfort of your home for hours on end, almost every single day, establishing boundaries between your home life and work life are necessary. All of it falls into one thing, making your work effective and curated for your specific needs. Here are a few steps you can take to make the most out of your remote working.
Consistent Sleep Schedule
This step is much easier said than done as rolling out of bed and opening your laptop up can be most convenient after a long night of scrolling on social media or binging on Netflix. However, establishing a consistent sleeping schedule is not just essential for your 7-8 hours of rest that we need overall, but will create that work structure balance. It can give you more time to set up a morning routine that will help you keep and stay productive through the day.
Carve Out a Dedicated Space
Yes, this means you shouldn’t just grab your computer or laptop and bring it into bed with you. Not only does that interfere with your sleeping schedule but will make you less productive and ruin your posture. Having a dedicated space to work at home will get you in the habit of building your work flow. Keeping all of your work space in one place lets the rest of your home become your space of tranquility and peace.
Make a to-do List
Writing out all your tasks can give you an insight on how to plan your day. It can give you a broad outlook of what can be done through the day or spread out through the week. You can either type it out on your computer and have it tacked on your desktop or write it out. Preferably both as writing by hand can improve your memory!
Schedule Breaks Into Your Day
Including this on your to-do list, taking breaks through your day is vital. It’s easy to get lost in your work especially when working from home. Scheduling breaks will give you some time to yourself, check in on your pet for some afternoon cuddles, catch up with friends and family, and get some food in your system. Making sure your taking that lunch break in your day is also important to keep that structure moving through your day as you would if you were going into the office.
Get Moving
Whether its a 10 minute walk outside or a dedicated 30 minute yoga session after work, getting some movement in your day after sitting at your desk all day is needed. Getting some fresh air and getting yourself going, your body will thank for it at the end of the day.
Stay Hydrated Through the Day
Investing in a dedicated, large water bottle to keep at work space can be really helpful to staying hydrated through your day. It’s easy to forget to drink water especially if you’re working at home all day. On average, people aren’t drinking nearly enough water as they should be. According to Leslie Mann at the Chicago Tribune, “Forty-three percent of adults drink less than four cups of water a day. That includes 36 percent who drink one to three cups, and 7 percent who drink none.” This can lead to lack of focus, motivation and fatigue.
Keep Your Space Clean
No one likes working in a dirty, cluttered space. At least, doing so won’t make you feel productive and make your own mind feel cluttered. Organization and a clean space is key to making sure you can take advantage of the day and it can feel brand fresh for every brand new day.
Stick to Clocking Out at the Designated Time
We always do this, “just one more email,” or “I’ll just finish this task on my list.” Although it’s great to get as much work done as you can, it’s easy to burn yourself out when there’s no need to leave the office or commute when you are working from home. When it comes time to log out, make sure you’re doing so and creating that boundary for yourself.
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