Working from home can feel like a dream come true, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. Between the temptation to binge-watch your favourite series and the allure of your cozy bed, staying focused and productive can be tricky. Fear not—we’ve got your back with some dos, don’ts, and tips to maximise your remote work setup!
1. Do: Create a Dedicated Workspace
Set up a space that’s exclusively for work. Whether it’s a corner in your bedroom or a full-blown home office, having a dedicated spot signals your brain that it’s time to get to business. Bonus points for a cute desk plant or some fairy lights for a little mood boost!
Don’t: Work from your bed. It’s comfy but terrible for productivity (and your posture!). Save your bed for post-work relaxation.
2. Do: Set a Schedule and Stick to It
Start your day at the same time you would in the office. Include breaks and an end-of-day routine to help you transition from work mode to home mode.
Don’t: Forget to take breaks. Overworking yourself can lead to burnout. A quick 5-minute stretch or a coffee/snack break can work wonders.
3. Do: Dress the Part (At Least a Little)
You don’t have to wear a full suit, but ditching the pyjamas can help put you in a more productive mindset. Think comfy but presentable—you never know when an impromptu Zoom call might pop up.
Don’t: Stay in sleepwear all day. It might feel good in the moment, but it’ll drag your energy levels down.
4. Don’t Let Lunch Take Over
It’s easy to get carried away during your lunch break when you’re at home. Set an alarm for 30 minutes to an hour, and stick to it. Try prepping meals in advance so you’re not tempted to spend too much time cooking.
Do: Use your lunch break wisely. Take a walk, listen to your favourite podcast, read your favourite book, journal any thoughts you have circling or even do a quick workout to refresh your mind.
5. Do: Keep Your Workspace Tidy
A clutter-free desk equals a clutter-free mind. Invest in organisers, or go full Marie Kondo and only keep items that "spark joy."
Don’t: Let your workspace become a dumping ground for random items. The chaos will creep into your workflow!
6. Do: Minimise Distractions
Turn off notifications, close irrelevant tabs, and set boundaries with family or roommates. Let everyone know when you’re in "do not disturb" mode.
Don’t: Multitask with housework or TV. You’ll end up half-doing both! Save the Netflix binges for after-hours.
7. Do: Personalise Your Workspace
Add things that make you happy—whether it’s a motivational quote, a picture of your pet, or a candle that smells like a beach vacation.
Don’t: Overdo it with distractions. Keep your decor simple and inspiring, not overwhelming.
8. Do: Plan Your Day
Use a planner or digital tools like Notion or Trello to outline your tasks. Having a clear plan helps you stay focused and productive.
Don’t: Overcommit. Be realistic about what you can achieve in one day to avoid unnecessary stress.
9. Do: Move Around
Sitting all day isn’t great for your body or your brain. Schedule in some movement, whether it’s yoga, a walk, or just stretching at your desk.
Don’t: Stay glued to your chair. Your body will thank you for the occasional break!
10. Do: Reward Yourself
Celebrate small wins! Finished that big project? Treat yourself to a fancy coffee or an episode of your favourite show after work.
Don’t: Forget self-care. Working from home doesn’t mean you have to be "on" 24/7.
