There’s been an increase in the number of people working from home, making it easier for them to balance their personal and professional lives. While some have returned as we’ve settled into whatever this ‘new normal’ is, it’s a trend that has continued throughout the pandemic. Employees are able to spend more time with their families while still being productive at work. However, there are some downsides as well.
It can be difficult to separate your work life from your home life, which can lead you to feel exhausted or burned out. In some instances, employees experience reduced quality of family time or even a lack of motivation and creativity.
Let’s explore a few easy and practical ways to make your home office work for you.
Set specific work hours and stick to them
Establish specific hours for working at home and try not to work past them. Choose your most productive working hours and build your schedule around this time.
If you find it difficult to stick to specific work hours, then it may help to schedule certain activities into your routine that forces you to put the laptop down. For example, join a volunteer program or a tennis club.
Designate a workspace
Choose a desk or table where you’ll be able to spread out your paperwork, computer, and any other items necessary for completing your tasks. Next, set up a filing system that will minimise clutter on your desk as well as make sure all of your important documents are stored properly.
Make sure that you eliminate distractions, including household chores. It may help to have a space off-site to use as a backup plan, such as a remote office space that is quiet and free from distraction.
Switch off notifications after working hours
It can be difficult to stick to specific work hours if you’re constantly getting notifications from your email or phone. Avoid checking email or answering phone calls outside of your set work hours.
The same principle applies during work hours. Turn off all notifications for social applications so that you’re able to focus on your work and not be bothered by any distractions.
Set boundaries with your family
One way to minimise distractions and ensure that you’re able to focus on your work is to set boundaries with your family. Let them know that you’ll be working for a specific amount of time and ask them not to disturb you. Communication will help create an environment where you’re able to focus on your tasks without any interruptions.
At Storage World, we provide a safe and secure office space away from the home. Our facilities in Manchester Central, Middleton and Hale and Wilmslow are conveniently located and offer an affordable alternative to the home office.
We also offer clean storage units to store household items, allowing you to free up space in the home office. Get a quote online and boost your productivity while working from home.
