Working from home may initially feel like taking a paid leave and momentarily becoming your own boss. Yet, you have not adequately planned on how you will accomplish work assignments outside your regular office.
As an office worker, you already have rituals which you take for granted until you are disrupted by unexpected changes. For instance, you set clock alarms based on your personal preparations for work and commuting time. During working hours, you enjoy the times allocated for breaks. When working from home, you may not follow these routines to the letter. At times you will be tempted to wake up a little late and skip formal dressing.
>> Seven Essential Skills for Elevating Your Career
Since you are not going to commute or drop your children to school, your day will start late. To overcome morning sluggish behaviour, maintain a sense of structure and do not deviate from your usual schedule. Dress up professionally and go to a designated home office space, equipped with the necessary items for work. This approach will simulate a professional environment conducive to productivity.
Conquering Procrastination
Bombarded with newfound freedom of remote work, you might wish to neglect common organisational tools such as to-do lists. Occasional distractions and the relaxed atmosphere at home may cause you to put off work related tasks. To tackle procrastination, set clear targets and intentionally avoid unnecessary delays.
For instance, do not wait until your supervisor reminds you to submit assigned work. Combat procrastination head-on by promising yourself not to postpone what you can conveniently execute on a particular day.
Avoiding Unconscious Overworking
People with home working experience find themselves working for extended hours. Without commuting hassles you will be enticed to begin working early or close business in late hours. Unconscious overworking could easily make you suffer from both physical and mental exhaustion.
To avoid burnout, manage your time effectively. Establish a clear schedule for the start and end of your working day which matches with your employer’s official working hours.
Enhancing Communication
Despite an array of communication platforms, you can still encounter misunderstandings through email exchanges. Do not hesitate to clarify details directly via phone calls when needed. Regularly use tools like Zoom or Microsoft Teams for interactive discussions. Such communication channels will maintain collaboration and understanding within remote teams.
>> Move from Watcher to Doer at the Workplace Using These Tricks
Addressing Technology Challenges
Poor internet connectivity in remote areas may impact on your ability to work effectively. Request your employer for necessary facilities to ensure stable Internet connections and capability to troubleshoot technical problems promptly. Establish a reliable technological infrastructure for seamless remote work operations.
Living a Healthy Lifestyle
Plan to eat a balanced diet at regular meal times. Also, stay hydrated with at least six glasses of water daily.
To combat the sedentary nature of remote work, incorporate physical exercises into your routine. Choose and engage in a variety of outdoor and indoor exercises to beat monotony. The exercises will not only enable you to burn excess calories but also keep your body fit for work. Remember to prioritise your mental health by taking breaks and engaging in activities that rejuvenate your mind.
Samson Osero, HRD Consultant and Author of Transition into Retirement, [email protected]
Leave a comment