And with schools across the nation closing their doors, you may be in a position where you’re left to look after children at home while tapping on your laptop at the same time.
If you’ve been told to work remotely, here are a few ways to get motivated from business consultant, Alessandro de Dorides.
Have a shower and get changed
Some people think the best thing about working from home is bodding about in your pyjamas all day. But being a slob doesn’t really put you in the right frame of work for some serious business. If you have a shower and get changed, you’ll be psychologically ready.And don’t forget – you may need to appear on a google hangouts chat with a client and how awkward is that going to be if you’re just chilling in your Batman pyjamas?
If you’re ready to do work, even if it’s in a pair of jeans and a sweater, at least you have left the rest area and your brain is switched on for the day ahead!
Be ready to work your usual hours
You may be tempted to think that because you’re no longer driving into work that you can stay in bed longer and start work later.If a company employs you, they’ll want to know you’re working your usual set hours of work. This may mean the boss ringing you unexpectedly for a catch-up and you wouldn’t want to be halfway into your Line of Duty boxset when he does.
It’s best to stick to your usual routine and be ready to work at the normal time.
Don’t be distracted
At home, you need to assign an area where you will work – ideally away from distractions such as TVs. A properly adjusted desk and chair are good to have as they will make you feel ready for a working day.It’s certain to be tough if you’re self-isolating and working with children at home – in which case you may have to have a lock on the door or set times when you are available to play monsters or make dens.
Take regular breaks
You don’t need to stay inside all day along. It is acceptable to take screen breaks and go for a walk – after all, Boris said exercise was alright.Fresh air may help you see things differently when you arrive back, give you food for thought or perhaps just a welcome distraction from your lounge walls for a few minutes.
Interact with people
You can still talk to colleagues on the phone or chat on whats app, so you won’t feel completely alone. You’re far less likely to be disturbed if at home but then there are distractions like the biscuit tin.Having the occasional chat can prove much more productive than a string of emails that you can avoid or hide behind.