12 Ways To Be Efficient When Working From Home

Common wisdom says you shouldn’t bring work home with you, but that's a problem when it's lockdown and you have to work from home.

by Women’s Health

April 1, 2020

Okay, let’s be honest, working at home isn’t a good fit for everyone because it takes a fair amount of discipline and flexibility, especially if you are someone who thrives off being in an office space, with other people around. The adjustment can be jarring at first and if you live in an apartment, with spouses or children, as much as we love them, they can be disruptive. Here are some ways to make lockdown worthwhile and effective for you as you #WFH (work from home).

1/ Set a schedule, and stick to it…most of the time.

First off, if you love working from home, then establishing clear working hours for yourself will be a breeze. Working from home naturally introduces a whole host of new distractions and situations, this is why discipline is so important. Setting clear working hours means choosing to wake up at the same time as you would for work and sticking to a nine to five schedule. Depending on your personality, it may suddenly become easier to work earlier or later every day. Remember, you’re still on company time during the week.

2/ Put things on paper

You’re processing heaps of information during this time. You may occasionally find yourself scrolling through your social media pages to find out the latest news. Your brain is absorbing all kinds of information, that could affect your work life. We highly advise you to write things down so you don’t forget any deadline or any virtual meetings.

3/ Change out of your pajamas

Yes, working home is cosy and not wearing a bra makes the lockdown bearable, in order to create a healthy routine for yourself, getting out of your PJs is vital. Treat each new day as if you were going to get ready to leave for work. Set your alarm early enough so you have time to have your morning coffee, shower and get dressed in other clothes. This ritual is good for getting in the zone for work days.

4/ Close non-work-related tabs

The long list of open tabs on your PC is a huge distraction. I know, as I’ve often found myself clicking on them. Close all non-work related tabs such as Netflix or Showmax, or you’ll find yourself going down the ‘just one more episode’ with no work done for the day.

5/ Stay connected to colleagues

Remember when the Springboks won the Rugby World Cup last year, we were #BetterTogether? The same hashtag applies. Staying in touch with colleagues assists the team to feel connected and on the same page. Have regular Zoom or Team meetings to strategise and plan the next steps for the weeks to come. Deputy Editor, Wanita Nicol says Trello is a great online productivity tool to keep track of the workflow if you work in a team. “Each person has a task list and as you finish the task, simply drag the task onto the next list of the person who needs to work on it next.”

6/ Notify your team about your priorities

This is a great way to keep yourself accountable for all the work deadlines you have to meet. Our Women’s Health team comes together on Monday’s and video call to show each other our pretty faces. As much as we convene to discuss content, deep down we truly miss each other and the banter. It’s just not the same via Whatsapp.

7/Switch up your working space

Our Managing Editor, Amy Hoppy says, setting up a proper desk for herself has worked. “I don’t have a dining room table anymore, but really I need a desk more than a place to eat now.” Amy has plants placed around her desk to boost her mood.

8/ Step outside to reset

If you’re fortunate enough to be able to walk in the garden or at the parking lot — DO IT! Our brains need to switch off every once in a while to reset. A whiff of fresh air outside will do your productivity levels wonder. If you don’t have space to move around then take five to ten minutes to think of something creative to do for your business or the company you work for. Get innovative!

9/ Open the window

There’s nothing quite like fresh air to keep you awake, open it up and let the breeze seep through. If you have an outstanding view from your work desk, you’re one lucky lady.

10/ Include a bit of movement

Keep moving, even if it’s walking inside the house. If you have a smartwatch, aim for your 10 000 steps per day. Movement in the form of exercise is a good way to keep your stress and anxiety levels down. Why don’t you try our WH 21 Day Challenge as part of your day?

11/ Lunch breaks are important

One lunch break has proved to be a challenge for me during this time. The number of snacks, I have before, during and after work is shocking! Try to limit your lunch break to an hour. This is what you would do at the office. If you can, try to eat your lunch away from your computer. You deserve that hour away from your desk.

12/ Start your day with mindfulness

Cancel out the noise around you. Listen to a podcast, set your intentions for the day, play some jams and get into the zone to set the tone for your day.

What have you been doing to increase your productivity levels during SA lockdown?

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