Nicole Weaver
March 15th
There’s a lot to love about working from home and having the right habits in place can make the experience that much better. When you’re working on something especially challenging, having things to look forward to during the workday can make all the difference.
These working-from-home habits can boost happiness and productivity, too.
Instead of reaching for your phone to hop on social media when you need a break, pick up a book or e-reader instead. It will give you the distraction you’re looking for without the downsides of social media.
When you hit the 3p.m. slump and find yourself craving another cup of coffee for some much-needed energy, try a little burst of exercise and a non-caffeinated drink instead. Just five to 15 minutes of walking, yoga stretches or any physical activity you like will get the blood flowing and get your productivity back on track.
If the eight-hour work day ahead of you feels overwhelming, try separating it into sections, like classes when you were in school. Schedule time for projects, emails, leaving time for meetings and last-minute tasks that pop up, and don’t forget to include breaks, too.
Try to have something that you’re working toward or learning. This can include reading, taking a course through LinkedIn Learning or Duolingo to learn a foreign language.
If the day isn’t going well at first, don’t think of it as ruined, instead let yourself start over, assuming the bad stuff is all behind you.
Whether it’s classical or movie soundtracks, the key is finding music you enjoy that doesn’t distract you from work.
You’ll feel better physically and mentally when you’re hydrated, so make sure you’re drinking enough water all day long.
Without a commute to separate work time from free time, you can come up with something that signals the end of the work day for you, like going for a walk or calling a friend.
