As our prime minister has announced that the movement control order (MCO) will be extended by another two weeks, this is the fourth phase of the MCO. The outbreak of the COVID-19 has most people to work from home and most likely would be the current and future trends. Working from home might blur the boundaries between work and personal life. Hence, here’re some tips to stay productive while working from home.
1. Define your spaces
First of all, have a space that is designated as your workstation. Set aside some spaces, preferably a room, where you can concentrate. When you enter the room or sit in front of the desk, you know consciously that you’re going to work and automatically you will separate work from home.
2. Keep your work area tidy with a notepad and pencil nearby
A tidy workstation helps to keep a tidy mind which is able to make you more productive. Jot down any idea that comes to your mind on the notepad. You might not know that some of the best work will come from these random inspirations.
3. Have a good chair and stay hydrated
Choosing the right office chair can help to create a more productive and positive working environment. Having a good chair encourages good posture too. Remember to keep a bottle or glass of water on your desk or by your side to stay hydrated.
4. Keep clearly defined work hours
While working from home, set regular hours or use the same schedule as your work hours. Having clear guidelines for when to work and when to take a break helps to maintain work-life balance.
5. Give yourself breaks
For every few hours you work, take a 10 to 20 minute to have a break. Do some stretchings or take a snack to give your mind some time to refresh. You’ll improve the quality of your work after you come back from the break.
6. Start the day properly
Before starting your work, have a proper breakfast and spend some “me-time” to just sit and do whatever. Just make sure that your mind is not in the mood of “Urgh, I hate to work”.
7. Get dressed
You don’t need to dress up formally like how you wear to office but at least don’t stay unshaved in pajamas. Have a shower, a simple act of changing clothes could act as a signal to indicate that it’s time to wake up and get things done.
8. Stay off social media
It’s important to stay updated but try, try to stay off your social media. Turn off your notifications too when you need to work without distraction. In fact, you can always check your updates during your work breaks. Or you can choose to read local books authored by Malaysians.
9. Listen to music
Music is used to set the tone of our environment and our moods. Choose the correct playlists and you would be able to complete your tasks more quickly and have better ideas. Remember, the effect on productivity depends on the situation and type of music.
10. It’s okay to overcommunicate
While working from home, tell anyone who needs to know about your schedule oftenly. Inform anyone who needs to know when you completed an important task. It’s essential to stay connected with your colleagues, managers or your bosses.
Above all, figure out what works best for you. Stay home and stay safe.
