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More people than ever are working from home due to the pandemic, and for some of you, this looks set to continue as businesses realize the benefits of not spending money on expensive office space. Learning to cope without the daily interaction with co-workers has been challenging for many of you, and video calls aren’t the same. Working from home does have its benefits, however, and many of you have enjoyed the chance to skip the daily commute and spend more time with your family. Whichever side of the working from home debate you fall on, these top tips will help maximize your experience and leave you wondering why anyone ever bothered going into the office.
Maintain regular hours and establish a routine
It can be all too easy to let work take over your life when your workplace and home are the same place. Maintaining regular start and finish times and taking the same length breaks you would in the office is essential. Don’t be tempted to check your emails while you are still halfway through your breakfast, as this will disrupt your morning routine. Before you know it, you’ll get caught up in something, and you’ll have started work early. Having that time to relax and wake up properly before you start is essential. The same goes for not eating your lunch in front of your laptop. Make an effort to shut it down and take your full lunch break to give your brain the rest it needs to recharge for the afternoon.
Set up a dedicated office space
For those of you lucky enough to have a spare room, this can be easily turned into a dedicated office space. Make sure you have the equipment you need to work comfortably, such as a monitor, mouse and proper office chair. If you need to work at the kitchen table, dedicate a particular end of the table as your ‘office’. This lets you know that when you are sitting here, you’re ‘at work’ whilst the rest of the kitchen remains your home space. With no office water cooler to go to, don’t forget to remain hydrated. For continuous, reliable and safe drinking water, educate yourself on water pump problems and solutions to ensure you don’t end up with any issues.
Don’t be afraid to ask for support
Whether it’s taking the time to share your experiences of working from home with friends or colleagues in the same situation or speaking to a dedicated professional about your mental health it’s so important that you have the support you need. Working from home can take its toll on your mental health, especially if you are used to working in a busy office environment. Most companies offer support to employees which should extend to supporting your psychological welfare. Don’t be afraid to ask for help; reach out to those around you and use the available resources.
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