How to (actually) work from home

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, working remotely was not as common as it is now. In its wake, we currently live in a changed world where companies provide alternative working conditions. Employees are now allowed to choose between going to the office or working from the comforts of their own houses.

Truth be told, working from home is both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, you don’t even have to leave your bedroom in order to make a living. On the other, there are way too many distractions. Raise your hand if you’ve felt like Netflix is beckoning you from your television set while you’re trying to work.

Regardless, this alternative work option is here to stay. The COVID-19 virus is still at large, after all. Let’s get you prepared to be as productive as you can while working from your sanctuary.

Make sure you have a strong Wi-Fi connection

The number one essential when you’re working remotely is high-speed Wi-Fi. We’re talking Usain Bolt fast. Attending virtual meetings and making work calls all day will be a herculean task if you have a spotty internet connection. Not to mention how extremely demotivating and frustrating it is when your laptop screen keeps loading. Be sure to check out unifi fibre coverage from Jom Apply for lightning fast Wi-Fi and a great internet plan.

Prepare a special space for office work

You don’t need to have a big fancy office in order to remain productive at home. It’s enough to purchase an affordable, sleek desk and matching office chair; nothing fancy. It’s more important to place your new office furniture at a bright spot in your house. Sunlit workplaces are proven to increase productivity by 5 to 40%. Always do remote work in your dedicated spot and Bob’s your uncle!

Invest in a good coffee maker

Most offices come with readily available mugs of steaming coffee waiting to be made at the pantry. Ensure that your house is no different. Though caffeine addiction is a very real thing, coffee also helps to keep your energy up and your concentration sharp. It’s difficult to go without the beverage, especially since you’re working from home. So start browsing for a functional yet affordable coffee maker today!

Take regular breaks

Let’s be honest; when you’re in the office, you don’t spend the whole 9 to 5 (sans lunch break) completing the work you’re supposed to do. Sometimes you would browse through your phone, listen to music, talk to your colleagues and more. In other words; you take breaks from doing your work when you’re at work. Don’t forget to do the same when you’re working from home. You can create a schedule such as alternating 30 minutes of work with 15 minutes of doing other things. One good thing about remote work is that no one is there to breathe over your shoulder. Take advantage of it!

Remember, just because you’re working from home doesn’t mean you can slack off. The work must go on! Follow these tips and watch yourself go from unmotivated procrastinator to employee of the month.