How to win at working from home

If you haven’t worked at home before before (and let’s face it, this is a completely unique time for all of us) then you might not realise that there’s actually a fine art to working from home successfully.

We've found some key tips from the EAP about how to make working from home work for you:

Keep a regular schedule

 

Firstly, it's important to create and maintain a routine and schedule when working from home. Start by setting up a designated space for you and each family/ house member to work and learn. When working out your daily schedule, be sure to include periodic breaks for recharging (fresh air, sunshine, stretching, a walk around the block!). We know everyone's schedule will be different (that's the beauty of working from home!) but here's an example of what yours could look like:

  • 7am: Wake up, stretch, take care of kids/animals
  • 7.30am: Breakfast and family exercise time (technology free!)
  • 8.30am: Work and check on updates with small breaks every 30 minutes or so
  • 12pm: Lunch break, get fresh air, stretch and exercise
  • 1pm: Work with breaks every 30 minutes, check in with co-workers
  • 5pm: Sign off for the day and get ready for dinner - call a friend, family, or loved one
  • 7pm: Selfcare/ relax time 

We’d like to add that showering and getting dressed in *actual* clothes is a good way to switch into work mode. Lying in bed with your PJs on, although tempting, isn’t great for motivation or ergonomics!

Keep your immune system strong

  • Wash your hands with soap for 20 seconds (about two rounds of the “Happy Birthday” song)
  • We know, it goes without saying but get plenty of sleep
  • Eat a balanced diet and drink plenty of water

Be kind to your body and your mind

  • Exercise: This is not only good for your physical health, but your mental health too. Make sure you get up and move around throughout your work day. Walking, stretching, planks or jumping jacks— do whatever works best for you to reduce stress and increase endorphins. We have some great workday workouts for you try in the wellness locker
  • Get fresh air: Take a break from your screens and get outside for a brisk walk and fresh air, make sure avoid crowds and try to maintain the recommended 2 metre distance from other people.
  • Make time for fun: Carve out some time for fun activities that make you feel happy and calm. This might include meditation and yoga - you can find some great yoga and meditation classes in the mindfulness part of the wellness locker. You may also enjoy journaling, reading, art projects, baking, breathing exercises, or listening to some relaxing music. 
  • Stay connected (and get creative with it): Stay connected with family, friends, and colleagues using technology like FaceTime, Skype, Google Hangout and other video-based options. If you feel comfortable, chat about your fears and concerns with your friends and family, chances are they are feeling the same way. Get creative with the way you socialise online. Why not try coffee breaks with colleagues, a bake-off with your family or trivia with friends? The options are endless.
  • Set clear boundaries with your work schedule: When working from home, make sure that you are working reasonable hours. It can be hard to properly switch off when you're working from home, but working too much could negatively impact your health and well being, so stick to a schedule!

We hope you found these tips helpful, and encourage you take advantage of everything the wellness locker has to offer.