Working from home is the new normal -- with the light of recent events we are forced to do life differently. I have been grateful to have a "home office space" for the last 20 years. I have saved commute time, been able to create a work balance with raising my 4 kids and enjoy the flexibility in creating a schedule that I thrive with.
With the freedom also comes isolation, lack of collaboration and developing key relationships. A few tips on how I have best navigated my style in remote working:
1. Plan a designated work space - This is key to productivity as it tells our brain it is time to get to work. It is hard to concentrate and have meetings from the kitchen table. Pay attention to proper space and comfort in posture - consider a standing desk, laptop stand, large display, and proper lighting for video conferencing. I use music, fresh flowers and candles to enhance the "zen" working mood.
2. Keep a normal work schedule - If you are used to be at the office at a certain time - keep the same routine. Wake up, get your workout in and dress like you are going to the office. Take a walk break every 60 - 90 minutes. Do walking meetings with a headset. Plan for a lunch break. This is not a time to part time work - part time play. Harness the extra time - use what your commute time would be to read a book. Revisit your strategy and goals. Invest in your own growth - increase your emotional intelligence. When it's time to go "home" for the day - tidy your space, close your laptop, and go home.
3. Pay attention to habits - In a recent read of Good Habits, Bad Habits Wendy Wood states this: "Many people actually confuse habit and self-control. The majority of people in my surveys say that in order to start a new habit you have to exert self-control, and that’s just not true. Instead, they know how to form habits that meet their goals." What is needed is repetition of the desired behavior. So, as you think about working from home, put all your good intentions aside and practice what it is that you want your behavior to be. It takes just 66 days to create a habit ... now is the perfect time to start!
4. Stay connected - The more we work apart, the less we work together. When working from home, the feeling of loneliness can be very real. Schedule meetings either first thing in the morning or in the later afternoon that have a social aspect to them. Have your coffee or a glass of sparking water, to make it social. Using video conferencing is best - I love Zoom for the ease of use and scheduling. Engage with at least one co-worker weekly over video in a reoccurring appointment time. At the end of the week, send an email summary to your manager with the highlights.
If you are new to working remote, it can take time to adjust. It takes extreme focus and reliability. Find your sweet spot and it will show in your performance!
Want to chat more about -- feel free to schedule a free consultation today. I want to hear your story!
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