Working From Home: Maintaining a Balance
In recent years working from home has become the new normal, the pandemic and rapid technological advancements have allowed for more flexibility in the way work is structured. Working from home offers luxuries such as avoiding a long and costly commute, reducing interruptions from office colleagues, the ability to work for organisations in another city or state, and increased productivity. However, working in the home environment has its own set of obstacles, such as less interaction with co-workers, recording and reflectivity details of productivity, and decreased access to management or support staff. It is possible to maintain a healthy work-life balance, experiencing both job satisfaction and personal enjoyment, by trying the tips below:
Create a productive space. This can look like a home office or simply a desk outside the bedroom used for work purposes. Physically separating ‘work’ and ‘personal’ spaces can reinforce boundaries and cue your mind to be productive.
Set concrete work hours. It is important to set parameters for productivity and explain to your colleagues you are only available at this time. Try to avoid planning tasks or answering your emails outside these hours.
Have a regular schedule. Try including movement and lunch breaks at similar times every day. Whilst it is important to plan tasks that need to be completed, it can be easy to get stuck into a task and forget to take a break when you are working on your own.
Schedule consistent ‘catch up’ time with your colleagues. Working from home can feel isolated and a regular brainstorming or collaboration session can remind you that you’re supported by a team and do not need to rely on independently solving problems.
Plan activities away from home. Having a home office can often lead to spending copious amounts of time in the house. Try to engage in physical activity, socialize with friends and family and participate in enjoyable hobbies outside that maintain your wellness.