From abiding by a fast-paced daily schedule, to a drastic slow down in routine. This is a common shift in the workforce dynamic as a result of COVID-19. Following the recent shelter-in-place orders, most individuals have transitioned from working from an office to working from home. Although this may not be an ideal work style for many, it is crucial that we take control over this change in routine rather than letting it take control over us. Here are six tips that enforce motivation and productivity when adapting to working from home:

 

One of the primary challenges when it comes to working from home is holding yourself accountable when it comes to structure. Our homes are perceived to be our places of comfort and our space to wind down and relax, which can make the adjustment of treating it as a professional work environment difficult. A solution to this challenge would be to follow a routine that balances out productivity and relaxation. Appropriately divide the hours of your day between time that’s solely dedicated to work and time that’s solely dedicated to leisure.

 

Being efficient during this time calls for being aware of which work styles bring you success and which work styles don’t resonate with you. It’s important to communicate this with your employer while actively seeking what they expect from you. Transparency when it comes to expectations on both ends establishes boundaries and reduces the potential of miscommunication. Play your work from home routine by ear and address changes and conflicts as they come up.

 

Staying in touch with your loved ones throughout this time is crucial. Intentionally schedule time throughout your routine to offer and receive support from those you care about. Consistent communication with your friends and family reminds you that you’re not alone during this isolation. Take advantage of resources such as video chatting and social media, as these platforms serve as the next best thing to socializing in person. Although we’re enforced to practice social distancing, interaction remains present and definite throughout various mediums.

As our minds and mental health are heavily occupied throughout this shelter-in-place, it’s essential to work on our physical health. Being physically active stimulates the release of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin to your brain, which calls for a natural boost to your mental health. Between tending to your work responsibilities, take some time to step out of your home and soak in the beauty of the outdoors. Remind yourself that being in isolation doesn’t completely translate to hiding indoors.

 

Exploring your creativity grants you the freedom to express yourself through guidelines and expectations that exclusively derive from you. Getting in touch with your creative side allows you to gain a better understanding of yourself, what you value, and what you enjoy. Whether you choose to make a painting or go outside and snap a few photos, the outlet of creativity has the capacity to recharge your internal battery after a long day of working from home.

Maintain a healthy relationship with yourself above anything else. Tend to your overall health by intentionally practicing self-care throughout your routine. Eating healthy, having a regular sleep schedule, keeping up with good hygiene, allowing yourself some time for leisure; whatever self-care looks like for you, make sure you’re getting a daily dose of it. It’s easy to lose ourselves in this time of isolation, but tending to yourself makes it easy to avoid that disconnect. Remind yourself of your worth throughout this period and prioritize your wellbeing over any pressure you’re receiving elsewhere. The act of self-care will make it easy to create a work-life balance throughout your routine.

Although this shelter-in-place brings hints of change and uncertainty, it is up to us to strategically adapt and persevere. Allow yourself to experience the positive and negative emotions that come up throughout this time, but remember that this way of living is only temporary. As you incorporate these tips to your work from home routine, you’ll gradually find your niche and succeed. Continue to wash your hands, stay home, and make the best out of this situation!