Before 2020 was struck with the COVID-19 stigma, only 7 percent of the U.S. workforce had the option to work from home. This percentage has increased exponentially in just a few weeks after COVID-19 had spread globally and other than essential workers, most of the employees were sent to work from home.
The idea of working from home is as appealing to employers as it is to employees. There are benefits on both ends and it has been found by Harvard Business School that the companies allowing employees to work from anywhere have higher rates of productivity, reduced turnover, and lesser organizational costs.
As there is no land without stones, the concept of working from home seems convenient but is not all that simple and easy. There are distractions that you used to leave behind at home previously but have to deal with now. In this guide, we have jotted down the details that you need to take care of when working from home.
WORKING FROM HOME – THE CONCEPT
From a study of 2018, we have observed that the average U.S. worker used to spend 4.35 hours a week or 26.1 minutes, each way commuting from and to work. In Washington D.C., the commute takes around 43.6 minutes one way, on average.
Working from home also called remote working, flexible workplace, or teleworking, has been around for the past half-century but has gained traction when the world was hit with this pandemic. To retain employees, flexible work schedules, and telecommuting work as the most valuable assistance. This notion is now being appreciated by both employers and employees as it frees a lot of time for the workers while the employers save organizational costs.
WORKING FROM HOME ESSENTIALS
The physical aspects of the home office have to be maneuvered in the best possible manner to provide you with a healthy work environment.
Dedicated workspace
If working from home seems like a long-term plan, then you should perhaps look for a secluded area of the house that no one has to intrude often. This space must at least be big enough to house technical equipment, a desk, and a chair.
If you are in sales or have to deal with clients frequently, you should have a seating space as well. In the event that you do not have a spare room, you can convert your garage, porch, or laundry room into a multi-purpose space.
Standing desk
An adjustable standing desk is the best piece of furniture when it comes to office space. People who have to sit at their desk for a longer period of time are exhausted to an extent that it can cause serious whiplash as well, therefore, an adjustable desk can be adjusted to sitting and standing posture. Studies, further, show that standing can help reduce your weight, control blood sugar levels, and let you avoid heart diseases.
Natural lighting
Natural sunlight is the best way and the vitamins it provides to your skin, can reduce your stress levels, supports your bone structure, and take you far away from depression. If possible, place your desk in a place where there is enough natural lighting available; if this is not easily feasible, you should invest in a lightbox with a natural setting to get a nice feeling to improve efficiency.
Ergonomic chair
The health of your spinal cord depends on your posture and there is no amount of money more important than your health. Considering the importance of your back and spinal cord, you should invest in an ergonomic chair. These chairs are designed in a way to provide you with total comfort and fit the shape of your back to protect your posture.
When your chair and desk adjust to your body type and posture, you can work comfortably and for long hours without facing any exertion.
High-speed internet connection
The world we live in today is fully engrossed in the internet and its benefits. Although the level of internet usage might vary for every person depending on the work type. It has become an essential workpiece for all individuals. You should have a high-speed internet connection that can support your work regime.
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CREATE YOUR OWN WORK FROM HOME POLICY
For serious results, you need to work with a serious mindset as well. Prepare a strong work policy to maintain your work ethos while being at home. Many people have their concentration diverted because of the distractions at home and that is the reason you should ensure to have a sound ethic.
Establish work hours
Although the work from home philosophy offers flexibility in working, you must establish work hours to ensure you don’t get consumed by your office work all day, every day. Flexibility, if not taken strategically, can become a pitfall for you. Your manager might ask you to work for specific hours of the day. In the event that you do not have a set work schedule, you should make one for yourself to remain productive.
Furthermore, you need to understand that you have other responsibilities as well. The biggest mistake people make when working from home is the absence of discipline. If your work starts merging in your daily life, it will consume you more than you can imagine.
Establish your routine
Some tips that you need to carry forth in life for a successful life are:
Always start early in the day so that you have all the time in the world to invest in yourself.
Workout or exercise to rejuvenate your soul and then have a healthy breakfast.
Although being at home, you should dress up formally to maintain the idea of working.
Make a to-do list every day and assign goals to yourself.
Don’t be too hard on yourself and take breaks.
Sleep early and make sure to at least get eight hours of sleep.
