by Emma Dupont-Brown
Second time around, and many of us have learnt to manage with the challenges of a more restricted life but it doesn’t make it easier.
As social beings, we crave connection and as Aussies, we crave the outdoors. So how do we achieve this best when work and home are so often now the same place? How do we keep getting the best from ourselves in our 9-5 so that our 5-9 is the relaxing and re-energising space we all need?
Here are a few tips that we’ve found help keep up the motivation and focus when working from home…
- Keep a routine – it doesn’t have to be the same as life before lockdown but a routine helps you feel in control. Try to start work at the same time and ensure you set clear goals and purpose in your day to help keep you on track. It’s easy to fall into the habit of working well after COB, but it’s important that you schedule breaks, time to move your body and a time to log off at the end of the workday.
- Have a dedicated office space – (if you can) We don’t all have the luxury of a home office but if you can find your own space in your home to dedicate to work, it will help you feel like you’re ‘at work’. If you plan to work in a communal space like the dining table, ensure you remove clutter and set yourself up for the working day in advance so you can start your day on the right foot, with focus and purpose.
- Build in a ‘virtual commute’ – switch off at the end of the day and transition back into ‘home life’. This could be as simple as packing up your laptop, note pads, etc. and moving into another room of your home. Try to find a way to leave the day behind before switching gears. Take the dog for a walk, have a shower, do some stretching or catch up on your favourite podcast.
- Keep moving – in these colder months it’s easy to stay cooped up indoors but getting some fresh air is great way to reset and clear your mind. Make some time to get outside to exercise or walk each day.
- Keep it social – even though we may all be physically disconnected, it’s important we make an effort not to feel isolated. Schedule a ‘virtual coffee’ or Friday night drinks with peers or networking contacts. Having an end of week social catch up with the team to talk all things cooking, life and sport can be a great circuit breaker that helps keep us connected, keeps relationships strong and supports those who may be struggling.
