Working from home, more often than not, pretty much sounds like a dream. We’ve experienced it occasionally when we take a sick-off or when we need to work during the holidays, but never under such circumstances when the government requires us to practice social distancing and work from home for what seems like an indefinite period.
It can get slightly crazy, and let’s face it - boring. So how do you stay sane and remain productive during these times? "I think the biggest thing that is underestimated is the psychological impact of being alone," said David Hassell co-founder and CEO of 15Five, a performance management software provider, where 40% of the workers are remote.
Here are some tips to stay well-balanced:
1. Take a shower and dress up.
Get out of bed and get ready, as you would on a normal day. As much as it may seem realistic to just wake up and start working while in bed, it’s a bad idea when you’re trying to be productive. Make your bed, take a shower, get dressed up, have some breakfast - all these things help to set the tone and put you in the right frame of mind to stay productive while working from home.
2. Maintain communication with your team and managers
Set up regular check-ins with your team or manager that allows you to not only provide progress updates, but also sort through any problems or brainstorm ideas. Whenever possible, use video over the standard conference call to help create more interactions and avoid loneliness. At Yusudi, we use chat apps like slack and video conferencing apps like zoom.
3. Check up on your friends
Since you’re not getting out a lot, you’re probably missing out on hanging out with friends. Carve out time in your schedule to catch up with co-workers the same way you would in the office and chat outside of the weekly conference call. Make some time to talk to a real human (especially if you live alone) to avoid losing it.
4. Take a walk
Scheduling time to get out of the house and simply go for a brisk walk around your apartment, walk up the stairs to the rooftop or something else where you can get some vitamin D is crucial. A change of scenery, however short, can make a major difference in your perspective and productivity.
5. Stay optimistic and positive.
With all the news doing rounds on social media, it’s easy to get distracted and be all panicky. Practice certain habits that will ensure you keep your head above the waters no matter what comes your way. Protect your mind, guard your heart. Stay sane.
Author: Ivy Njeri, Marketing Lead, Yusudi