Working remotely simply means working from anywhere else that is not a traditional office setting. This could be working from your home, working from your parents home a cafe or a co-working space.
As a parent who worked remotely prior to the pandemic the transition from pre and post Covid era was relatively simple – bar the homeschooling and having 3 small humans to look after at the same time.
1. Plan your day
Make that list and know what you need to get done. The MoSCoW method is my go to which comprises of a grid of Musts, Should and Could – if i have time . Limit the Must and Should blocks roughly to time you would spend on each task in that day. There is no point of having 4 tasks equating to 40 hours for one working day. Do not set yourself up to fail!
It should makes sense to you and help you identify what actually needs to get done v what are the non priority tasks.
2. Allow for contingency in your day
It is so easy to get sidetracked and dragged into other things during any given day, so as part of your planning for the day, give yourself some buffer time around each task. If its not needed, that this allows you to work on other items likes the Would list that not many of us ever get round to doing, anytime soon really!
3. Be kind to yourself
I wish I did this much earlier on in my career, it would have saved me a lot of stress and anxieties. We are only human and strive to do our best, that is all that any employer can ask of you and what you can ask of yourself. Accept that things never always go to plan, mistakes are made and that really is OK! Honestly it is. If you do make a mistake own it – it really is the only way to stop yourself dwelling on it and moving forward.
4.Get things done by taking a break – every hour!
Being productive doesn’t mean overworking, which is so easy to do when sitting in the comfort of your own home. Your mind does not function at 100%, all throughout the day. Take a few moments every hour to stretch your legs, to look away from your screen, and remind yourself that this is a job only – your well being matters.
You are at your best when you are prepared focused and fully understand the task that lies ahead.
5. Engage with your team
Being part of a team makes a difference to your well being regardless if you are introverted by nature. It is always beneficial to share ideas and garner feedback.
6. Environment
However big or small your space, make it your own, be it with your favourite mug, pot plant or desk mascot, creative an environment that makes your feel happy and comfortable.Your desk chair matters as does your mouse mat.
