The last couple of weeks have been an absolute whirlwind for everyone. The COVID-19 situation seems to escalate to new heights every day. With shelter in place restrictions, we have all been thrown off our routines and are now trying to adapt to the new normal - staying home.
Working from home is one of the many challenges Americans now face. While it sounds like a dream come true at first, you soon realize tackling work tasks on a laptop from the couch with thousands of distractions isn’t the easiest.
We have put together five tip & tricks that can help you stay on tasks and have a productive workday at home.
ONE: WAKE UP & GET READY
While it’s tempting to wake up late, crawl out of bed and get online in your PJs, you are not setting yourself up for a successful day. Set that alarm and start your day exactly as you would on a normal workday. Have quiet time, take a shower, make breakfast - do whatever you need to do to get into the right mindset.
TWO: DEDICATE A WORKSPACE
Whether it’s your dining room table or kitchen counter, it’s very important to dedicate a specific spot in your home as your workspace with minimum distraction. Make sure your space is cozy, yet productive so you can concentrate and be successful.
THREE: PLAN YOUR DAY
Even if the day isn’t looking to be a super busy one, plan out your daily schedule. I will be the first to admit that I don’t have every minute of my day planned out to a T, but amid the distractions at home, it is important to hold yourself accountable. In addition to work tasks, be sure to include time for lunch, midday breaks and exercise sessions. Even if you aren’t a big “planner”, there is something super satisfying about checking things off your list!
FOUR: FIND THE PERFECT PLAYLIST
For most, a normal workday is filled with murmur from colleagues, keyboard clicks, coffee brewing and many other typical office noises. This norm makes working in a silent environment at home a bit more difficult. Spotify has tons of great playlists for every preference and mood. Find one that makes you happy and get to work!
FIVE: SHUT OFF THE SCREENS
One of the most important aspects of a productive work environment is knowing when to log off and enjoy time away from your screen. It can be tempting to squeeze in one last thing after dinner or before bed, but this can easily lead to more stress and even burnout. Set your work hours and stick to them. Something as silly as saying a fun phrase at the same time every day to signify the end of the workday can take your mind out of the working mode. How to get MCA to shut down for the day? Wine time!
While trying to cope with our new normal, it is important to create an environment that is productive, but also brings you joy. Find your happy space and get down to business! We’re all in this together and will get through this!
