One of the biggest areas of many of our lives impacted by the coronavirus pandemic is our working lives. There are many individuals that are now working from home on a permanent basis. Here’s how to get in the zone with GAP’s top tips for home working:
1. Create the Right Workspace for Home Working
You’ll likely be spending a fair amount of time seated at your workspace, so make sure you have a height-adjustable desk and an ergonomic chair for home working. Use soft lighting that doesn’t cause any glare or shadows as you work, and try to set your workspace up in such a way that you’re abler to look outside. Having adequate storage is also important for keeping yourself organised. A potted plant or two, along with personal touches such as cherished photos or motivational quotes, won’t go amiss.
2. Separate Working and Living Spaces
One of the best things you can do to create an effective workspace for home working is to separate the concepts of “home” and “office” as much as possible. Even if you don’t have a dedicated room that you can turn into an office space, aim to dedicate a corner or area of a room to your work. The key here is to allow yourself a transition between your work life and your home life. Ensure that your workspace is as far away from the main living space in your home as possible.
3. Be Disciplined With Your Time
Separating your working and domestic lives can be a challenge, not least when it comes to time management. Be sure to work when you’re supposed to be working, and living the rest of your life when you’re not. In other words, start working at the time you would if you were still at the office, and stop working when it would be time to leave. That doesn’t mean that you can’t take regular breaks or get some fresh air if you need to – the intention here is prevent your work and recreational time from spilling into and mixing with each other.
4. Set Clear Goals for Yourself
Reaching your goals in any aspect of life is about breaking them down into smaller, more manageable steps, and formulating a plan that allows you to achieve each of those steps in turn. Try planning your working week on both a daily and weekly level, and divide the tasks you have at hand in two – smaller tasks and big-picture projects. Set individual deadlines for individual goals to keep yourself productive and motivated.
5. Place Emphasis on Your Mental Health
Use the breaks you allow yourself to do some exercise, even if it’s just a walk around the block or some stretching. Not only will help you physically, but just a little time spent exercising each day can improve your memory, boost concentration and help your mental health. You should also consider your individual needs, for instance if you happen to be somewhat of an extrovert, dedicate time to spend with family and friends after your working day is over.
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