Tips To Make Working From Home Work For You
Many Canadians are dealing with a temporary WFN status for the first time. Whether you're isolating alone, with roommates or a full family; it's important to be set for success and productivity in your makeshift home office. Here are some tips from the Furniture.ca team on how to master this transition.
1. Start The Day Off Right
Keep a sense of normalcy by continuing your regular morning routine. Make the bed, shower, get dressed and eat a proper breakfast just as you would if you were getting up to go to the office. Removing the commute may allow you the chance to get all your morning ambitions done for a change.
2. Set The Mood
Whether you can devote a private room in your home to an office or just setup a workspace at the end of the kitchen table… set it up to be productive with the essentials (desk, stationary, comfortable chair, etc.) as well as personal touches that inspire you (family pictures, colourful art, a houseplant or scented candles).
3. Get Organized
Since you're spending much more time at home, try to keep it clean and tidy so you are not distracted by messes during your workday. Keep your workspace organized with baskets or file folders on your desk and plan your day with a to do list or online calendar.
4. Light It Up
Even if your workspace is in a dark corner of the basement, keeping it well lit can reduce eyestrain and improve your mood. Add a table lamp or floor lamp, or if you can add natural light (like setting up your desk facing a window), even better.
5. Give Yourself A Break
It's easy to be more focused with less distractions at home, which may cause you to forget to stop. Remember to take breaks to eat and do light stretches to reduce strain on your limbs. Schedule breaks in your online calendar so they pop up on your screen if needed.
6. Get Outside
Let your Fitbit know you're still ok by getting outside for some exercise and fresh air. Take your next conference call while walking around the yard or have your lunch on the balcony.
7. Turn Off Distractions
You wouldn't have the television blaring in the office, so avoid doing it when working from home. Remind family or roommates that although you are home, you are still working. Plan independent activities that kids can do while you work (puzzles, crafts, art, etc.)
8. Retreat To Your Happy Place
At the end of your workday, shut down and retreat to your favourite "non work" room in your home. Cozy up your bedroom or living room with extra cushions and throws and enjoy the extra down time.
- Tags: home office Tips & Tricks
