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Taking The Gloom Out of Zoom: How to Slay Working from Home

Lucy

February 01, 2023 · 5 min read

Love it or hate it, the ‘WFH’ grind has stood the test of Covid time, cementing itself as a new societal norm, and something we are all very well acquainted with. Sure, an unmuted mic is the new cringe-worthy ‘accidental reply all’ and our uniforms have been replaced with pajamas, but luckily we’ve been able to navigate these once uncharted waters, coming out the other end, (relatively) unscathed. 

So, how do you slay working from home? It’s safe to say we’ve seen a couple of winters when it comes to the old WFH system, and so we thought we’d share our top tips when it comes to the art of truely nailing working from home, and trust us, there really is an art to it!

No. 1 – Routine is a must!

As Aristotle so wisely said ‘We are what we repeatedly do’, and working from home should be no different! As humans, we thrive on routine, and believe us, we know all too well, the temptations of wavering from such when working in a different environment to normal.

Avoid waking up 5 minutes before kick-off (unless of course, that’s what you routinely do!) and carpe diem exactly how you usually would. Be it a 5am gym sesh, or some mindful breathing, maintaining a sense of normal is essential for a day at the (home) desk.

No. 2- Create a designated workspace

Now, we love WFB (working from bed) as much as the next person does, but this needs to be avoided when it comes to remote work. Creating a designated working space is essential when it comes to nailing your WFH set up. This minimises distraction and allows you to mentally get in the work zone. By establishing a designated space, it also helps to create that sweet sweet work-life balance everyone is searching for.

No . 3- Set boundaries with others

When boundaries are far and few, you are opening the doors for Mr Burnout to come knocking (unannounced and uninvited)! When working from home, it’s easy to work longer hours than usual, and fill your plate with more than normal. Setting clear boundaries will help you recognise and mitigate signs of burnout, so you can continue to show up at your best!

No . 4- Take breaks and move around

Working from home is synonymous with a serious case of square eyes! It’s important to take regular breaks, albeit a hot lap around your bedroom. In all seriousness though, prioritising movement throughout the day is a game changer when it comes to WFH, and a non-negotiable in our day!

No. 5- Avoid distractions

In true Gen Z form, my phone is glued to me at all times, posing as the ultimate achilles heel-kryptonite-hybrid-distraction-monster. Sure, working from home may feel more casual, but it’s still a work day. Put your phone on DND and get on with it!

No. 6- Communicate effectively with team

If your team isn’t on slack, what are you guys doing? Continual communication is essential when it comes to both productivity and accountability when working remotely. Whether it’s serious work chat, or just sharing a meme, frequent check-ins and an open channel for dialogue is a must!

No. 7 Prioritise self-care

Self-care is crucial when working from home to maintain physical, mental and emotional well-being. A healthy diet, hydration and stress management techniques such as mindfulness can help maintain a positive outlook.  Self care can be different for everyone – be it a post-work walk, a face mask or reading a book, it’s so important to prioritise time for self-care when working from home.

No. 8 Set achievable goals.

Managing expectations can be a hard pill to swallow, but also is needed when working from home. Writing out an achievable daily list for yourself at the beginning of the day, and crossing it off as you go acts as the ultimate morale booster – keeping you accountable and feeling productive throughout the day. 

So there we have it! Our simple (but also effective) top tips when it comes to working from home. Master this list and you’ll be well on your way to slaying your work from home routine. Power to (your) people!