Though working from home has become the global standard, many of us are still struggling to adapt to this new way of working.
Of course, there are reasonable grounds for those groaning at the thought of spending yet another work day at home. Working from home has taken the small joys of traditional work quirks––no more coffee runs or lunch trips with colleagues, no more chats by the water cooler.
Not to mention the agony of trying to reach the right person at the right time when you need a work problem solved quickly.
For most people, working from home makes them knee-deep in work tasks and turns their work-life balance upside down. On the other hand, there are those who thrive in a productive work from home balance, reaching peak productivity, as they enjoy day-to-day life even more now that they finally have time for family and fun.
But the question is, why this difference? What are the dos and dont’s of working from home and how can we avoid burnout and stay balanced? In other words, how can we ensure a perfectly productive work from home day?
How to Design a Perfect Work From Home Day?
The fundamental keyword that separates those who struggle working from home and those who thrive in it, is control. Efficient remote workers know how to maximize their day. They tend to be more organized, more open to practicing the right habits, and more likely to avoid these bad habits:
Drop These Bad Habits While Working From Home:
1. Forgetting to Set An Alarm:
We’re starting this list with how you should start your morning. Yes, morning alarms can be annoying whether you’re working at the office or at home. But this simple act is the first step to crafting your morning routine, and as a result, helps you design your day perfectly.
Though waking up at 11 AM sounds tempting, this will only extend your work into the early evening, which is no way to maintain a work-life balance. So, set your alarm, take a shower, make some coffee and start a consistent morning routine. This can help you to get into a working mood faster and easier.
2. Over Isolating Yourself
One of the worst problems employees struggle with while working from home is social isolation, according to research from The Oxford Handbook of Personnel Psychology. This means they miss professional-based social support from colleagues and supervisors, like when they need help or advice from co-workers.
Even though you’re working remotely and online, never solely rely on these online channels. Instead, maintain a consistent and transparent trail of communication. Let your supervisors and managers see your work process while working from home. Don’t hesitate to attend virtual events with your coworkers. Maintain and nurture these connections, even if you haven’t seen your colleagues in months. Call them from time to time to chat about work and suggest all-staff meetups.
3. Not Using The Right Tools :
Tracking apps are huge assets that make remote working simpler and more productive. These apps are a lifeline when it comes to creating a well-designed work from home day. Remember, it’s normal to lose track of time while working from home, occasionally––but these apps will keep you on track and ensure you’re organized and accountable to completing tasks.
You will know how much time you spend on every detail in your day: How much time did that nap take? How many minutes (or hours) did you spend doom-scrolling on social media? How much do you actually spend time on work tasks? This way, you will have the upper hand on your daily tasks, and be aware of your day-to-day distractions.
