How To: Survive Working From Home and Balance Your New Lifestyle
Buckle up – working from home is here to stay. In this article, we’ll take a look at the most effective ways to streamline your new working environment, boost productivity and rediscover your work/life balance.
The last few months have shifted the way that we think about our jobs, but how exactly has working from home changed your work life?
For better or for worse, our work has become intrinsically linked to our personal lives, and in the process, we’ve lost some of the perks of the office environment. For example:
- Being in the same physical space as our colleagues
- Enjoying impromptu water cooler conversations
- Partaking in one-to-ones with our line manager
- Meeting with clients and candidates face-to-face
- Having a clear distinction between work and home life
So, whether we’re missing the office, or enjoying the comfort of our own space, it’s important to realise that there is a strong possibility we are entering a new era in which working from home is the new normal.
“Lockdown has sparked a working-from-home revolution, with 74 per cent of organisations planning to shift some employees to remote work permanently.”
It’s not all bad news, though. Working from home has a vast array of benefits, ranging from increased productivity to greater flexibility in the structure of your working day.
According to a recent study carried out by Consultancy.uk, 62% of those surveyed reported a positive change in their work/life balance, with 48% experiencing improved communication within their teams, and a further 43% claiming that their productivity had increased since lockdown measures were implemented.
That being said, despite Boris Johnson’s recent announcement that employers can recall their employees to offices from 1st August 2020, it’s not unreasonable to forecast that many organisations may look favourably on maintaining remote working given its potential financial and organisational benefits.
So, let’s take a look at how, in the latter scenario, we can be set-up to maximise productivity, stay connected and create a balanced lifestyle.
1. The set-up of your home office will change everything
It’s paramount to your motivation and positive attitude towards work that you clear a dedicated area in your home. Ensure you have a surface where you can replicate your office environment and begin to populate it with the equipment and tools necessary in order for you to carry out your work to the best of your ability.
A few things to consider could be:
- An ergonomic desk chair where your feet touch the floor - Dual screens situated at eye-level
- A headset to reduce phone strain
- Access to company software
By creating this area, you will immediately develop a clear distinction between where your work takes place and where you go to eat, sleep and relax. If there are any facilities you are without, contact your line manager as they will be able to assist you in ensuring you’re set up for success.
2. Stay in the loop
It’s safe to assume at this point that most of us are all Zoom-ed out – or at least running out of tropical virtual backgrounds that exude wishful thinking. Regardless, keeping clear streams of regular communication with your team will ensure you remain connected and up-to-date with relevant news, and also allow you to access the support of your colleagues when needed.
Interestingly, whilst Consultancy.uk’s study revealed that 48% of people surveyed experienced a positive shift in communication, 43% also felt a negative impact on morale.
Even though we may not be in the same room as our team, we are still able to motivate, empower and assist one another. Use the technology to your advantage for efficient communication, but make sure to check-in with your team, promote collaboration and maintain a positive atmosphere.
3. It’s a balancing act
The idea of a healthy work/life balance has always been part of our consciousness surrounding our jobs, but it’s safe to say that it has never been more indispensable than in the current social climate.
By bringing our work into our homes, and in doing so, positioning it alongside our domestic practices, relationships, and hobbies, it’s easy to feel like the office has invaded our personal space.
That’s why creating boundaries and developing a new routine within them is of paramount importance. With that in mind, here’s a few tips on how to separate your work from the rest of your day whilst at home.
- Keep active. Not only is daily exercise proven to increase your mood, it’s also a great way to manage stress and detach from work-related thoughts.
- Set office hours. If at all possible, keep to a set work schedule that starts and finishes at roughly the same time each day. This routine will not only allow you to focus more during your work day, but will also permit you to switch off and recharge.
- Take breaks (and take them in their entirety). Don’t short-change yourself when it comes to your breaks – it may feel unnecessary if your snack cupboard neighbours your desk, but taking regular breaks can help to streamline your productivity.
- Set ground rules for the people in your home. If you’re on an important business call, make sure your family, friends or housemates are aware that you should not be disturbed.
- Fresh air. Where possible, step outside and go for a walk. Don’t forget that Vitamin D leads to increased levels of alertness and reduces the risk of heart disease, weight gain and various cancers.
4. You’re all set
If we take all of this into consideration, we can confidently carry out our work from home and also enjoy time to ourselves.
Remember that taking care of yourself and others is key, and in this ever-changing socio-cultural landscape, it’s important to be kind, considerate and understanding.
If you have any questions, or would like to discuss further, please visit our Get In Touch page, where we’d be happy to continue the conversation.
Heather Clarke - Managing Director
Harris Burns are specialists in Executive Search and Senior Finance appointments within the Public Sector; with particular expertise in NHS, Housing and Charity Sectors. With over 60 years combined experience, we have extensive knowledge of the market, proven track records and established networks, allowing us to provide a wide range of services to both clients and candidates alike.
To learn more about how we can support you to either build your team or career, visit our Get In Touch page.
