Working remotely has become a permanent situation for many workers in the U.S. So, if you’re currently working from home, it is crucial to establish a couple of ground rules. This way, you’ll keep your productivity up, and your days will remain structured. Here are three helpful pieces of advice that you should always follow when working remotely.
Work in a designated space.
Many Americans use a desktop computer, laptop, tablet, smartphone, or combination of devices to get through their workday. Because most of these gadgets can be used anywhere, you might find yourself spending half of your day at a desk, and the rest of the day working from your couch, your bed, your outdoor chaise lounge...anywhere, really. Though some diversity in your working environment is good, it’s better for you to complete every task from one designated workspace. Pick a spot that’s away from most of the commotion in your apartment and do your best to work from only that space.
Maintain regular working hours.
While working from home, it can be tempting to break your regular working schedule. Maybe you’d like to sleep in one morning and compensate by working late that night. Perhaps, you’d like to make a good impression on your boss and knock out several to-do items over a weekend. But, you should approach any modifications to your regular working hours with caution. It’s important that you maintain a work-life balance, even when working remotely. Maintain your sanity and set boundaries between work and home by sticking to your normal, 9-to-5 schedule, no matter what.
Don’t forget to take breaks.
You wouldn’t spend an entire day at the office without taking a lunch break, so why should you glue yourself to your computer at home? Taking a few minutes to eat lunch, finish a short household chore, or simply spend time with your children or pets can keep your brain sharp and productivity up. Just be sure to keep track of how much time you’re away from your work – it’s easy to underestimate the amount of time one break will take! Try setting an alarm to remind you when it’s time to get back to work, and you’ll find the transition into breaks much simpler.
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