Working from Home During COVID-19

We prepare for a lot of things in our lives, but did we ever think we’d need to prepare for a pandemic? It is easy to follow the motions of stocking up on food, cleaning products, and essentials to keep yourself at home. However, it might not be as easy when you are told to move from your work office to a home office. Here are some tips to help you stay productive while working from home. 

Get Ready for your Day 

What might seem the most appealing in your home office is the work uniform – there isn’t one. Even though sweatpants and pajamas feel better than a uniform or business attire, there is a reason why you should change out of your pajamas while you go to your home office. Psychology shows that when you get dressed for work, your mindset changes. You change into a more productive mindset when you change your clothes. Whether it is a conscious or unconscious feeling, your productivity and motivation can decrease when you stay in your pajamas all day. This doesn’t mean you have to get all dressed up for your home office; you can still be comfortable, but change your clothes once you wake up.

Create a Workspace

Another comfortable idea might be to work from your bed, or the couch. This might not change your work ethic and productivity; your mindset might be fine in any environment. Test it out on yourself – see how much work you get done on the couch versus a desk, or the dinner table. If you find that you are less productive on the couch, consider creating a corner in your home that is designated only for work. 

Use Lists

When trying to keep productivity high, make lists. Try spreading your work out to two different lists: one list of things to get done before lunch and one list of things to get done before your workday is over. Having lists next to you while you work from your home can help minimize distractions and keep focus.

Take Breaks

While thinking about lunch, don’t work through. Your body and mind are adjusting to a new routine, they need breaks. Take your full lunch break to eat, hydrate, walk around, etc. It might help to do some small exercises or yoga poses on your break. Doing these small things can keep your productivity and concentration levels. There have been many studies that show workers that skip their lunch break to “catch up” or try and get ahead are actually less productive and more stressed than those who take their breaks. If you already do take your lunch break – great! Don’t let it change as you move into working from home.

There is no telling how long this pandemic will continue, or how long you’ll have to work from home. However, in the meantime, you can create good habits to ensure you are as productive and healthy as possible.