The next few months are going to require a lot of adjustment for most of us, and it’s important to adapt as quickly and efficiently as possible to this temporary new norm. Many of us have never experienced both the advantages and challenges of working from home. You have no commute (close your eyes and picture no cars, traffic jams or red lights… ), but there are a few things to consider to be as effective as possible.
1) Have a Workspace – Having a dedicated space is critical, both for organization and mental focus. When enter your home office, your brain needs to enter and remain in work mode. Having enough light is also crucial – ideally natural light. If you need to get creative with limited space, do so, but ideally your workspace must accommodate everything you need for the day. Plants can help with relaxation, and consider adding some color. Do what you can to personalize your space but don’t sacrifice functionality for form, and do your best to keep it clean and organized.
2) Overstock – There’s nothing more annoying than getting in a groove and having to run to Office Depot. It may hinder the aesthetics of your home office, but productivity is more important.
3) Be Comfortable – An ergonomic chair, desk/table of appropriate height, space to write/type/take notes, your monitor well-illuminated and directly facing you. We’ve spent decades perfecting comfort at your work desk, let that carry over.
4) Minimal Distractions – Can’t stress this enough. It takes 23 minutes to get back on-track after being distracted from your work. Just like multi-tasking isn’t really a effective strategy, don’t let your daily chores such as laundry affect your getting down to work.
5) Keep Time – Maintain your normal business hours, your internal clock will thank you for it. Also, give yourself time for normal breaks and take whatever time you’re used to taking for lunch. The goal to adapt to as quickly as possible, both to your new home office space AND back to your normal office when life gets back to normal.