If you’re one of thousands working from home for the first time because of the coronavirus pandemic, know that you’re not alone.
For some, working from home may sound like a dream, meetings in sweatpants from the couch and having your entire pantry available at all times. The reality however is having to work and play in the same space 24/7 can be much more challenging than it sounds. There’s often a lot more distractions and a lot less accountability. Making sure that we’re staying focused and productive during work hours comes down to routine and self discipline. Here are 5 ways to ensure you stay productive while working from home like the boss babe you are.
Create a dedicated work space
Whether you have a home office or have taken over the dining table, ensuring you have a dedicated workspace is really important. Having a specific space signals to you and your family that you’re on the clock, no distractions allowed. The more it can feel like your ‘real’ office the better, add all the little things that make your work desk including photos, work mugs and even stationary. We love a stationary stan.
Start your day with a morning routine
Just because you can wake up 2 minutes before you’re on the clock and roll downstairs in your pj’s doesn't mean you should. Try to stick to your usual morning routine so you’re well and truly ready to start the day. While you may need to swap your gym workout for an at home HIIT class because #stayathome, keeping things as normal as possible will keep your mind (and body) happy and healthy during these trying times.
Get dressed
Have you ever put on a fab outfit and felt crap for it? Nope, we didn't think so either. What we wear influences how we feel. Ditch the top knot and your pyjamas for something nice. It will not only make you feel good but really cement in your mind that you’re ready to ‘work’. Go the extra mile and apply some of your favourite beauty products too, a touch of our Bali Body BB Cream before your Zoom call will have you glowing.
Schedule a daily Zoom call
Mostly because it gives you a chance to say good morning and have a quick chat on any urgent action items but also because you’re going to miss your co-workers a lot. Schedule in a reoccurring Zoom call with your team to kick start your day every morning. Interacting and keeping communication open is now more important than ever, especially if you’re really struggling not having the constant sounding board and support right next to you.
Create a schedule & set boundaries
Write up a game plan and cross things off as you go. You can choose to do it daily or weekly, whatever works best to ensure your productivity flows. Not only will it keep you accountable but it will also help your team when it’s not so easy to see what everyones working on. Just as important is setting boundaries. This means that you don’t answer personal calls as they come through because you’re at ‘work’ as well as knowing when it’s time to switch off and enjoy your night. Closing down your computer and taking a walk outside (if it’s safe to do so) is a good way to tell your brain that work has finished and you can go home to make pasta now. You got this babe. 