7 tips for staying productive while working from home

Photo by Emma Matthews Digital Content Production on Unsplash

This article, slightly modified, originally appeared on themuse.com.

If you've never had to work from home or only did it sporadically and voluntarily, you may find the tips below helpful as you transition to your new "office." Some of these ideas may seem simple, but taken together they will set you on a path to staying productive as you embrace the new normal COVID-19 has ushered in.

Get dressed. Yes, sounds simple, but keeping this routine will help your sanity. Not to mention, your colleagues can only take a couple of days of you on Zoom in your PJs!
Setup a dedicated workplace. It may be more comfortable to work laying down in your bed or lounging on your couch, but over time the lines between work and personal time will blur. If you have a dedicated workspace where you "go to work" each day you'll likely be more productive.
Set working hours. You are still responsible for all your deliverables, but you are also the boss of you. Let your colleagues know your on/off hours for work. It can be a slippery slope otherwise.
Maintain your pre-work routines. If you listened to podcasts or read the paper before diving into your day, keep doing just that.
Limit news exposure. Trying to keep up with the latest news about the coronavirus can be stressful. We recommend setting certain times during the day to check-in.
Communicate clearly. Working from home is new to many people, but with the technologies available today its easy to stay connected. Ask your manager and colleagues their communication preferences, and diversify your modes (e.g. don't default to emails; use video chats or phone a friend).
Embrace virtual socializing. It's important to make time for the social relationships you have at work. Schedule a virtual happy hour or a video chat lunch date with a colleague. It will help your sanity.

We hope these tips offer some useful guidance to help you navigate the challenges of working from home.

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The Providence Health Team brings together caregivers from diverse backgrounds to bring you clinically-sound, data-driven advice to help you live your happiest and healthiest selves.
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