Working from Home: Create a Stress-free Work Environment in 5 Steps
Have you started working from home this year? Even after an adjustment period, it may still feel like the to-do list is endless. The lines between work and private life are blurry. Also, distraction comes in many forms, like your partner or children, or household chores that need to be done. And while many of us are super productive while working from home, others feel extra stressed these last few months. Read on to learn 5 easy tips on how to create a stress-free environment when working from home.
Working from Home: 5 Tips for Stress-free Productivity
Create your workspace
Working from home can be a challenge, especially if your living situation doesn’t give you the luxury of a separate office space. But sitting between piles of laundry or on your bed is not the best idea. Most of us need a (more or less) tidy workspace to focus. So if you’re working from your kitchen table, clean up first. Set up your space to avoid distractions. At the end of the day, you can “leave the office” by turning your temporary desk into a kitchen table again.
Structure is key
Have you caught yourself working longer hours? Now that you don’t commute, your workday is missing a clear beginning and end. The clear line between work and private life gets blurry. More important than ever: structure. Create some sort of morning ritual to signal to your brain that it’s time to work. This can be as simple as setting up your workspace or making some coffee. Equally (or even more) important: a clear sign that you’re done working for the day. A quick walk or short yoga session are greats ways to get out of your head and into your body. And speaking of moving your body…
Get active
Exercise keeps you healthy and fit, but it’s also a great stress relief. Whether you’re a morning person or night owl, try to get at least 30 minutes of physical activity every day. Stretch it out in the morning, go for a walk after lunch, or hit the gym right after work. This will – again – add structure to your day and helps you make room for new creative thoughts and ideas.
Adjust your expectations
By now, you may be used to working from home and crushing it, but many of us are still adjusting. It’s different and that’s okay. Accept that on some days, you might not get as much done as you would like. It’s impossible to give 100% every single day, so be patient and kind to yourself.
Disconnect
We’re constantly looking at our screens all day. Especially if you’re working on a computer, it’s a good idea to disconnect and avoid spending extra time on your phone. Avoid mindless scrolling during your lunch break. And once you’re done working for the day, why not pick up a book or a long-lost hobby? Get outside, connect with your family, and forget about your phone for a while.
These are our 5 tips for creating a stress-free experience when working from home. What is your number one trick to stay focused? Head over to social media, share your tips and inspire others!