8 Tips to Make Remote Work Awesome
1 - Create a designated work space (and keep it the same each day):
Having a designated work space is vital for remote success. Working from a different spot each day, or trying to work from the couch or bed will minimize your efforts to be productive as well as sane. Put yourself in a location where you can compartmentalize your work and living space, as well as focus. When you try to work in the same place where you binge-watch your favorite show, you’ll inevitably be distracted. This will also allow you to ‘turn it off’ knowing there’s a space you can leave behind when your work is over.
2 - Develop a consistent and strict routine
This is a must. We should do this every work but particularly when working remotely. For some, working from home will be a tendency to underwork due to distractions and an inability to focus. For others, overwork will be a temptation. Set up your schedule every week and every day. Use the Rule of Three to determine what must get done each week and stick to it.
3 - Be Human (get dressed):
We’re in this for the long haul folks. There is conflicting evidence on this topic, however just fight to get out of your pajamas. Your brain will thank you as getting dressed and it will trigger you out of relax mode and into work mode. It also boosts confidence when engaging with coworkers and clients.
4 - Create a rhythm for productivity (for your own sanity)
I found this to be extremely helpful - check out The Pomodoro Technique below. It’s important to know what your rhythm of work is not only to maximize your productivity at home but also your sanity.
5 - Buddy Up!
Over the last year, I've had a couple of co-workers that have been my remote buddy’s. We chat a few times a week, both for brainstorming, encouragement and commiserating - but regardless, they're relationships that go deeper than the rest of the company, and I have found this social element vital. Having deep friendships just makes work more valuable and fun, but it’s even more important working remote. Fight against the isolation and buddy-up during this time.
6 - Stay Physically Fit
Have you been dying to try out Yoga, but haven’t jumped the shark yet? Now’s your time. Plus you can do it in the privacy of your own home. You’ll look ridiculous, but who cares - no one will be there to judge. Earlier this year, I decided to invest in a home gym, but I still love yoga occasionally. If you haven’t tried it, Yoga with Tim is my go-to and Yoga with Adriene is my wife’s. They both have great introduction programs to help you get started. Yoga is great because it requires virtually no equipment, helps clear your mind and engages your body in ways that even normal workouts won’t.
If yoga isn’t your thing, running, jumping rope or ordering a pull-up bar can be great at-home workouts.
7 - Stay Mentally Fit
This one is absolutely vital. Here are a few tips:
- Stay off social media during work hours
- Don’t fall down the Buzzfeed/Youtube/News rabbit hole (I speak from great experience here. I’m notorious for one article leading to 15 whenever I go to Buzzfeed. I think that’s the point. :)
Explore meditation and mindfulness. Yes, Christian’s can do this too! The app I use regularly is Calm, and they have great short sessions you can do at work. For those of us that working from home causes more stress and anxiety - this is great! It also clears your head, helps you focus and return back to work ready to re-engage.
8 - Have Fun.
This pandemic may not be over anytime soon. So get creative and have fun. Do virtual happy hours or lunches together. Walk the neighborhood with your spouse. Have additional playtime with your kids. Check in with your clients, just because. Come up with creative suggestions your team can do together to maintain community during this unique time!