Top Tips for working from home.....or cabin for us!

In response to current events, we're aware that many of us (where possible) will now be working from home.

But being able to turn your home environment into your work environment and separate the two effectively is not as easy as it sounds. Which is why we wanted to pull together some of our top tips for working from home for those of you who aren't used to it.

One

First things first, don't wake up 5 minutes before your working day begins. You need time to prepare for the day ahead both physically and mentally. 

TWO

Get dressed. Whilst it sounds appealing to stay in your pyjamas all day and work from your bed or sofa, this is not productive. Getting washed and changed in the morning will help get you into the right headspace for work and also allow you to make video calls whilst looking presentable! (Wearing something on your feet also mentally helps you feel more dressed!)

THREE

Pick a dedicated workspace. If you are lucky enough to have a separate 'office' space than great but if not make somewhere you can keep separate from your relaxation time. Where possible you should keep the bedroom work free to help you sleep and relax better in the evenings. Make sure you have a comfy chair and good lighting!

FOUR

Plan your day. Make a 'to-do' list. This will help keep you motivated throughout the day and on track for any looming deadlines!

FIVE

Try to have as normal day as possible. Maintain your regular working hours (stick to them) and your routine minus the commute ;) If you need something bring up your work skype group or call your co-worker. 

SIX

Create some ambience. Working from home can sometimes be all too quiet, so listen to some music, or put the tv on (low) in the background or put some office ambience soundtracks on. Try to give yourself some atmosphere and reduce that lonely feeling.

SEVEN

Sign out of the computer and turn off all work-related notifications when the day is over. Easier said than done we know, but it will really help you to maintain a healthy work/home life balance.

EIGHT

Have a lunch break where you do not look anything work related. Read a book, have lunch or go for a walk to clear your mind and step away from your desk 

NINE

Also, take frequent breaks. It's easy to stay sat down at home as there are less distractions but its healthy to keep that body moving by going to make a cup of tea etc. It will also help stop you from burning out.

Using a working technique such as Pomodoro will also help. This is where you do focused work for set amount of time then when the time is up make a brew or check the news.

TEN

Saying that, don't do household chores throughout the day. This is a slippery slope and can get you distracted before you know it you've done two washes and hung them out wasting half of your day. Best to avoid and schedule them in post working hours.

ELEVEN

Make sure you socialise after work. Working from home gets lonely so call someone up and have a chat to them it will make you feel 10x better.

TWELVE

Set up a teams/skype chat with your team and remember to say good morning and check in with one another throughout the day.

THIRTEEN

If you live with other people, make sure they know that you will be working within certain time frames. Also don't forget to tell them when you have a work call and they can keep quiet. If you work at home with children, it might be fun to get them to help make you a sign, so they know when not to disturb you during working hours. 

FOURTEEN

When having calls, use headphones. And if you are in a loud area, make sure your microphone is on mute, so the team don't get distracted on the call. 

FIFTEEN

Go outside. This one is an important one. Fresh air is well and truly underrated, and we naturally forget about its magic powers when you work from home. Go for a quick walk round the block and you will be surprised how much it will help you focus.

SIXTEEN

That leads nicely on the need for exercise. Keeping your body moving and staying active is invaluable. Even if you can't get to the gym or your normal fitness classes there are lots of workouts you can do at home.

SEVENTEEN

Don't forget working from home won't be for everyone but keep focused on the quick wins. You get to listen to the same song on repeat all day if you wanted to. You can avoid the dreaded tea round and if you have them, you get to spend time with your pets.