Whilst working from home has its perks – no commute, ‘flexible’ dress code and less distractions – a change in routine can be unsettling, and missing out on seeing co-workers everyday can leave us feeling isolated and alone.
With workplaces encouraging employees to work remotely to all do our part to slow the spread of COVID-19, here at 90TEN – like many – we’re adapting to a new way of working. From healthy habits which ease stress, to practical tools to ensure that teams feel connected, we’ve collected our top ten tips.
Have a read of what works for us, it might work for you too!
What’s working for us:
1. Creating a new routine and sticking with it
Whether it’s getting dressed for the day, making your bed every morning, or going for a lunchtime walk. Find what works for you and stick with it to create a new normal.
2. Book-ending the working day
Whilst most of us won’t be missing our daily commute, it can provide a useful transition between ‘work time’ and ‘personal time’. Replacing your commute with a different signifier can help with switching off after a day working from home. Try starting and ending the work day with a walk outside, a particular song or even just some stretching.
3. Looking after our sleep
Sleep is one of the most important aspects of well-being and mental resilience, yet in times of stress and uncertainty it can be the first thing to start slipping. Try to stick to a regular sleep schedule. If you’re struggling to drift off, try an app like Calm or a podcast like Tracks to Relax with bedtime stories for adults or soothing sleep meditations.
4. Staying connected
Take advantage of quieter time and call friends or family. With options for socialising looking limited, try taking your mind off things with tea, wine or even dinner over FaceTime with friends.
5. Exercising
Regular movement can reduce stress, regulate sleep, improve focus and boost happiness. Find what works for you, whether it’s a long walk outside, trying out a relaxing online yoga session or a hardcore HIIT class.
6. Staying up-to-date, but not too much
It’s important to stay informed, but too much news may make you feel overwhelmed. Try limiting your COVID-19 news consumption to once-daily updates from a reputable source e.g. Public Health England, gov.uk or the World Health Organisation.
7. Creating a designated workspace
While the comfort of your duvet or the lure of your sofa might be tempting, creating a dedicated workspace can increase productivity and help to separate ‘work time’ from ‘personal time’. We don’t all have a home office, but a table and chair will do!
8. Treating ourselves
As you’re not likely to be spending money on fancy meals or nights out, treat yourself to something to enjoy at home. Buy a new book, download a film, order a takeaway or try a new hobby. Colouring, cross-stitching, baking and painting are some of our favourites!
9. Practising gratitude
Try to end every day by listing three things you are grateful for. This can be anything from a conversation with a friend, to managing to get some fresh air and sunshine.
10. Focusing on the now
We can’t control much at the moment which can feel a bit overwhelming. Try and focus on the here and now, slow down, relax, enjoy your cup of tea. 😊
Discover more 90TEN tips here.
