CULTURE

How You Can Work From Home the Right Way

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Here are some tips to feel productive and less stressed as you work from home.

With so many companies making employees work from home, it can be hard to stay focused and productive. Remote work is going to be the norm for everyone for some time so it is best to start good habits now. Here are some different ways to stay on task and not go stir-crazy.

Increase Communication

When working from home, it can feel like you are alone and have no one to ask questions or talk to. That does not have to be the case. Set times to check in with your boss to make sure you are on track and know what is expected of you. For example, ask your boss or manager if, at the end of the day, you can talk for 10 minutes to wrap everything up.

Create a Work Environment

It can be easy to lounge around in your pajamas all day and sit on the couch as you try to do your work. That will not increase productivity. Wake up when you normally would for work, get showered, and change out of your pajamas. If you do not have a home office, create a makeshift space for work only so you do not resort to laying in bed or sitting on the couch. Work during normal working hours and try not to do anything else such as laundry so you do not get distracted and stay on task.

Set Rules for Breaks

Quickly checking your phone for updates or messages or doing a household chore can seem tempting to get away from work. It is much easier to get distracted from home so it is good to create a set some rules for breaks. One rule could be that you only get two breaks that are only 20 minutes each. If you follow your own rules, you will still be able to stay productive.

Stay Positive

The most important thing is to keep a positive mindset. Recently, it has been difficult to stay cheery after all the negative headlines that appear everyday. The more you communicate and make yourself feel less isolated, the better you will feel. When you are reaching out to people, try to talk to at least one person about something non-work related. It will help you decompress and not make you focus on work all the time.

Follow these tips for an easier transition to working from home.