If you like many others are working from home, then it’s crucial you set up your remote office correctly to have the most positive and healthy work environment at home. Yet it’s not just about having ergonomic furniture and plenty of sunlight (although these things are definitely important); it’s also about putting systems in place that help you to maintain your wellbeing and feel good about what you’re doing.
Read on to find out how to create that coveted healthy work environment at home.
KEEP IT CLEAN
You’re working hard, and possibly even working longer hours now that you’re remote (this shouldn’t be the case, but often is), so the idea of also having to carry out housework and keep your office space clean and tidy might not seem too appealing. However, working in an unclean, messy office is terrible for productivity, even if you don’t realize it. Seeing lots of clutter all around you as well as dust and dirty plates and mugs, will be playing on your mind when you’re trying to do other things.
Try to keep your workspace as clean as possible, and you’ll be a lot more productive and perhaps even manage to work fewer hours. As for the clutter, why not install some garage shelving and store everything you don’t need neatly away? You’ll know where to find it if you do need it, and in the meantime, your office will be neat and tidy.
TAKE BREAKS
When you’re working in an office, taking breaks is something you’re sure to do, even if it’s only at lunch. It’s good to get up and walk around, and it’s good to stop staring at a screen after many hours. At home, things can be different. We’re all so keen to get everything done and look productive that we can work too hard, foregoing regular breaks and even skipping lunch or eating it at our desks which is never a good idea and can make you sick.
If you are working from home, you’ll need to schedule breaks at least every two hours, and ideally once an hour for self-care. And at lunchtime, step away from your desk and your work and eat in a different room. Go out if you can. Rather than ruining your concentration and ensuring you do less work, these breaks will actually make you more productive since your brain will be ‘recharged’.
Essentially, taking regular breaks help you do more work.
KEEP IN TOUCH
One of the most worrying things about working remotely is that you no longer get to see your work colleagues, and you might feel lonely or out of touch with everything that’s going on. Humans are social creatures, and we need to be around other people – at least once in a while – to make us feel good. With this in mind, it’s vital that you check in with your colleagues once in a while. Perhaps a video call meeting once a week that offers you the chance to catch up could be arranged. Make a point of communicating, and you’ll feel much happier even if you’re on your own.
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You may also enjoy these articles: 5 ways to add more space when you’ve outgrown your home + if you’re feeling disengaged at work, you’re not alone
This has been a collaborative post. All thoughts and opinions expressed above are not my own
