Joanna James
Covid-19 in all respects has certainly thrown a spanner in the works and thus, has affected lives and livelihoods in ways never dreamed of before. Against such a backdrop, companies and businesses have been called upon to alter their thinking in how they work and operate. Terms such as ‘remote’ or work from home’ are common phrases associated with the pandemic itself which does warrant a careful understanding of what involves such an approach. Outlined below are helpful tips on how you can remain focused and productive doing what you do best within the comfort of your home.
From a simple cuppa of your favourite brand of coffee to engaging in a session or two of yoga, there simply is no restriction when it comes to getting you in the mood for the day’s schedule ahead. Pause and ponder these questions: what would make things work better for me? Or how should I position my mind that will make me perform at a much higher and consistent level? What’s more? Avoid the tendency to multitask by filling your day with non-work-related activities the likes of wandering off to do the laundry or the dishes in the middle of an important presentation.
Remaining motivated can be the mother of all challenges when it comes to working from home. This is why drawing up a “to do” list can come to your assistance and be your friend on the odd occasion where you might tend to slack or drop off a tad in terms of energy and focus. Writing things down and ticking them off one at a time as you move through the day will be a most pleasing practice and a great reminder that you are well on your way to finishing up what you started. Try and do away with the need to keep every bit of information in your head and you will begin to appreciate the benefits and mental satisfaction of following a “to do” list.
Since you are at home, you will still need to find the time to attend to all ‘odds and ends’ while maintaining a strict code of conduct in all matters concerning your office, though not being physically present there. Remember that all non-work-related activities will require a plan so that nothing gets left behind or unattended. Develop a routine in a way where you place yourself in the best position to address matters of considerable importance and urgency. Being disciplined counts as your schedule must not weigh heavily in favour of work over your home chores or vice versa. You may also go one step further by sharing your schedule with your colleagues by way of a shared calendar. Family and friends can be informed of the same as well so that no one misinterprets or assumes the fact that working from home would mean that you are available at everyone’s beck and call.
It is extremely vital that you make every effort to connect with your mates from the office. Having weekly meetings is a start so that all persons concerned are well aware of their individual as well as collective responsibilities. Learn to provide feedback and also receive feedback via a digital platform of one’s choosing. To lighten the mood you can come up with weekly activities for the whole team to try out or get everyone involved in the aforementioned. Remember and live by the principle that “all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.” For similar takes on what involves adjusting to the ‘new normal’ and coming to terms with the modern lifestyle so to speak, do look up the Lifestyle Guide Online.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
