While working from home might sound like a dream to some, transitioning from a structured environment can be challenging. After all, working from home is certainly no holiday. And being productive is far easier said than done!
Here, at Elite Words, we’re well-positioned to help you navigate this “new normal”. Our job as copywriters entails remote work hours. Of course, we’re aware that each job is different. But, regardless of whether you work from home every day, a couple of times per week, or are just making a temporary transition, there are some essential strategies for getting the most out of your remote work hours.
Here are three key tips to help you make the most out of your time working from home.
1. Create An Office Space
When you’re starting to work from home, it might be tempting to work in the comforts of your own bed or favourite couch. But this takes a huge toll on your productivity – it’s hard to be efficient in slouchy positions and they are also bad for your back.
Try to create a dedicated home office. Ideally, your home office will be in a separate room with a door. If this isn’t possible, any consistent workspace will do – whether it be at the same desk or corner of your kitchen table. When you establish this space, your brain will associate it with work. This will help to shift your mindset – you’ll feel more alert, be more organised, and find it harder to become distracted.
2. Keep A Routine
When working from home, it’s tempting to give yourself total flexibility. You might now be suddenly finding yourself in the position of being able to decide when to get started, take breaks, or call it a day. However, it’s a lot easier to stay focused and efficient if you keep your schedule consistent.
A good idea is to try to recreate the schedule you maintained when you worked away from home.
“Try to get up at the same time, and do all the things you would typically do to get ready for work,” says William Castellano, a professor in the Rutgers School of Management and Labor Relations. So, if you’re the type of person who writes a to-do list every morning, keep making that to-do list. Or, if you caught up with the same colleague during your lunch break, try and schedule a time to check in with that person in the middle of your working day.
3. Create Downtime
For those who are used to working in an office, the evening commute home helps mark the end of our workday. It’s important to keep this tradition. One way to do so is as simple as moving away from your workspace and into another area of your house. This includes putting your work materials away and closing any work-related browsers on your computer.
Exercise is also key to establishing downtime. If your commute used to include walking, and now you have no reason to leave the house, you might find yourself forgetting to move. Try and use the time you’ve gained from no longer needing to commute as an opportunity to go outside and get some much needed fresh air.
Need Help? Get in Touch!
The Elite Words team has embraced working from home. Contact us today to find out more about what we can do to help your business thrive.
