Despite appearances, 'working from home' or remote working wasn't invented in response to the change in working patterns forced by the Covid pandemic. For millions of workers around the world, including freelance and remote workers (like We Are Your Business) this was an already well-established daily reality.
While there are many benefits to both the individual and the business to adopting or blending remote working practices, it does take discipline and commitment to make it work.
Take a look at our infographics on our social media to see how you can benefit from all the opportunities that remote working presents. As with all matters concerning effective and productive working, you need to have a plan and a structure.
Read on for the three most important rules when it comes to creating and maintaining a productive home-working arrangement.
1. Your working day
Establish a working routine
One of the downfalls of remote work is that you can become stuck in a rut. It's all too easy to fall into the trap of waking up late, having a relaxing morning and finally getting around to doing some work in the afternoon and into the evening. Motivation originates from a few differing factors, but having a routine that you stick to every day is the best way to get going.
If you wake up at the same time every day, and have a set routine of when you shower, get dressed and start your work, then you are more likely to have a productive day! And if you stick to this routine through all your working days, it will become natural and easier to feel productive.
2. Your place of work
Create a dedicated workspace
If you do all your work on the couch in front of the TV, you’ll never get anything done! Create the right environment to work by setting up an office in your home that's dedicated purely to your work. That way you can’t get distracted by the TV and when it comes to finishing work, you can leave that room genuinely feeling like your working day is done.
It’s been proven that if you work from your sofa, for example, you won’t truly feel relaxed when you finish work for the day because your mind will associate your sofa with work. It’s best to set up a proper office space that is your work environment and you only associate with work!
3. Your time-management
Give yourself breaks
Breaks are an important aspect of any working day. If you don’t take breaks, your mind will be overloaded with the constant pressure of completing all the tasks on your 'to-do' list and you'll soon feel drained and unproductive. Regular short breaks are vital to staying sharp and motivated! A break can be as simple as going to your kitchen to make a drink or having five minutes out in the fresh air. Breaks don't have to mean anything special, nor should they be too long, just enough to give your mind a chance to reset and rest your eyes if you work at a screen.
We hope these tips have helped you to have a happier, healthier and more productive remote working experience!
