As someone who’s been in the remote work scene for a few years now, I’m fully aware of the juggling act it can be. Balancing work and personal life, while still trying to be productive, can be challenging. Today, I’m going to share some of the tips and best practices I’ve picked up along the way. So, whether you’re new to working from home or simply looking to revamp your remote work routine, read on!
Separating Work and Life
It’s crucial to separate your work life from your personal life. And that starts with creating a dedicated workspace. This doesn’t have to be a separate room – a desk in a quiet corner will do. Having a place solely for work helps your brain to recognise when it’s time to switch into ‘work mode’.
One item that has revolutionised my workspace is an adjustable standing desk. It’s an investment, but one that has paid dividends in terms of my comfort and productivity. The specific desk I purchased is the MAIDeSITe Height Adjustable Electric Standing Desk, which offers an excellent balance of price and features. That being said, there really isn’t anything special about this desk over dozens of other options, so look around.
Having an adjustable height desk lets me switch between sitting and standing positions, which has noticeably improved my posture and reduced fatigue, but also makes it easier to get that separation going; I tend to work standing up and sit down when I’m not.
Tidy Space, Tidy Mind
Keeping your workspace clean and organised is equally vital. A clutter-free desk can lead to a clutter-free mind. Invest in storage solutions to keep your workspace tidy. You might want to consider a desk organiser to keep your stationary and other essentials at hand.
Of course, just having a tidy desk doesn’t guarantee you will have that laser focus you might be yearning for. When working from home, distractions can be abundant. To manage them effectively, consider employing a time management method. Personally, I have found the Pomodoro Technique to be incredibly beneficial. This involves breaking your work into 25-minute chunks, separated by short breaks. There are plenty of apps that can assist you with this, but a simple kitchen timer can do the trick too.
Remember, techniques like this only work if you actually focus during those 25-minute chunks!
Your remote work setup isn’t just about the physical space, though. Digital organisation is just as important. Use tools and apps that keep you organised and productive. Project management tools such as Trello, communication platforms like Slack, and file-sharing services can streamline your work processes.
Break Things Up
Make sure to schedule regular breaks too. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that being glued to your computer will make you more productive, but the opposite is often true. Taking regular breaks to stretch, hydrate, or just detach your eyes from the screen can work wonders for your productivity and mental well-being. Those breaks built into the Pomodoro Technique I mentioned above are just as important as the periods of focus.
Don’t neglect your physical health. A sedentary lifestyle can lead to numerous health issues. Stand up and move around frequently. A standing desk like the one mentioned above can help with this. You might also consider investing in a balance board for your standing desk. It encourages subtle movement while you work, boosting circulation and enhancing balance.
Connect
One of the biggest challenges of remote work is feeling disconnected. Combat this by staying in regular contact with your colleagues, even if it’s just for a quick catch-up. Video conferencing platforms like Zoom or Google Meet make it easy to schedule regular meetings or casual coffee chats.
Wrapping Up
Remember, the best practices for remote work aren’t a one-size-fits-all affair. Experiment with different tools and techniques to see what works best for you. Over time, you’ll develop a routine that’s tailor-made for your needs, making your remote work experience both productive and enjoyable.
The world of remote work can be a rollercoaster, but with these tips and best practices, I hope it becomes a smoother ride. And remember, your home office is more than just a workspace. It’s a place where you can foster creativity, productivity, and overall well-being. So, take the time to make it your own.