Who wouldn’t want to trade in a long commute for one that only takes a few seconds? The rise of remote work has made this possible, and there are more hybrid or remote job options than ever. However, it can be easy to fall into bad habits or feel overwhelmed by the isolation of working from home, so it is crucial to take steps to stay connected and productive no matter where you are working from.

How to stay productive

Even though you are working from home, it is important to remember that you are still a professional doing a job. As such, it is necessary to create an environment and a routine that will help you remain on-task and stay productive.

Environment

●      Have a designated workspace: Lounging on your bed or sprawling across the couch may sound like a comfortable way to spend your work day, but these places aren’t going to be the most conducive for your productivity. It is important to have a workspace that is separate from where you relax because it will help your brain and body distinguish between work and play. Designate a specific, preferably secluded, place in your home that is as far away from noise and distractions as possible. Set up an area that has all of the supplies and equipment you will need while working and is comfortable for you to spend long periods of time in.

●      Limit distractions: When working from home, it can be tempting to turn on the television or pull up social media. Then there’s that load of laundry that needs done, the dishwasher that needs to be unloaded, and a whole list of other chores that you have to complete. If you aren’t careful, it’s easy to get sucked into all of the everyday things you’re used to doing around the house. To limit distractions, it could be better to leave the TV off and remove social media from your computer, or at least silence notifications during work hours. Designate a certain time to do household tasks, so you don’t find yourself consumed with them throughout your work day.

●      Set boundaries with your family or roommates: If there are other people living in your household, especially children, it can be easy for them to forget that you are working. It is beneficial to have a conversation about what the expectations are while you are working, and ensure that everyone sticks to these boundaries.

Routine

●      Get ready for work: While donning a suit probably isn’t necessary, sticking to a regular grooming schedule and changing out of your pajamas will help signal that your work day is beginning and help you adopt a more professional mindset.

●      Set a schedule: You will be far more productive if you map out your day. Even if it’s not a requirement, try to start and end your days at the same time. Plan for meetings, when you’ll check email, what times you’ll take breaks, and schedule the work you have to do accordingly.

●      Take breaks: This is a must for staying productive. It can be easy to push through and keep on working without the natural interruptions and cues that occur in an office setting, but you will not be able to stay sharp and work most effectively if you don’t take the time to step away from your computer and recharge. Take shorter breaks regularly, but make time for longer breaks throughout the day as well. Breaks are a great time to connect with others, something else that is crucial when working remotely.

How to stay connected

Remote work can begin to feel lonely and isolating if you aren’t proactive about finding ways to interact with other people. Your mental health can take a hit if you aren’t intentional about verbal communication and spending in-person time with others.

●      Verbal communication with colleagues: Find ways to talk with colleagues that don’t involve email or online messaging. It can be easier to default to written communication, but it doesn’t fulfill the same social need. Using the phone or scheduling regular video chats can help with this, and helps keep the lines of communication open, leaving everyone more engaged and informed.

●      Socialize with your coworkers: Just because you aren’t together in-person, doesn’t mean you can’t find fun ways to interact. Find options for socializing online through virtual lunch breaks, Zoom office parties, or virtual coffee/water cooler breaks.

●      Take breaks with family or neighbors: Use your longer breaks to socialize with people around you. Schedule time with other people in your household, neighbors, or nearby friends who also work from home. It doesn’t have to be anything major - go on a walk, get together for lunch, or grab a coffee. These little in-person interactions will help combat feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Remote work is a great option for many, but it is imperative to have a plan in place to make sure you stay productive and connected in order to protect your mental well-being.