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    Mastering the art of working from home: tips, tricks, & staying connected

    Home > Cavendish Wellbeing > Wellbeing Blog > Mastering the art of working from home: tips, tricks, & staying connected

    The shift to working from home has transformed the way we approach our jobs. With flexibility and comfort at the forefront, it’s no wonder remote work is here to stay. UK stats from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) show that 71% of employers reported either no change or an increase in productivity since employees began working from home. 

    However, maintaining productivity and staying connected remotely comes with its own set of challenges. From power cuts to WiFi drops, these minor (and sometimes major) disruptions can throw a wrench into your perfectly planned day. So how can you stay on track and make the most of your time while working from home? Here are some top tips and tricks!

    Set a Routine that Works for You

    • While working from home gives you flexibility, having too much of it can lead to an unproductive day. Establishing a solid routine helps you stay organised and in control of your time.
    • Pro tip: Use time-blocking to break up your day. Whether you use an app like Google Calendar or stick with a simple to-do list, blocking time for specific tasks will keep you focused and help you manage your workload effectively.

    Create a Dedicated Workspace

    • It’s tempting to work from the sofa or your bed, but creating a dedicated workspace helps you get into ‘work mode.’ It doesn’t have to be fancy—just a space that’s reserved for work will do wonders for your productivity.
    • Make it your own: Add personal touches like plants, a good chair, or a cool desk organiser. A pleasant environment helps boost your mood and focus.

    Dress for the Occasion

    • While it’s lovely to work in loungewear, getting dressed for the day can mentally prepare you for a productive mindset. Studies show that what we wear affects how we perform, so switching out pyjamas for something casual but presentable can do the trick. 

    Stay Connected with Your Team

    • Remote work can sometimes feel isolating, but staying connected with colleagues is crucial for both work collaboration and maintaining relationships. 
    • Virtual socials: Beyond work-related check-ins, consider adding virtual team-building activities like quizzes, coffee breaks, or online games to keep things lively.

    Prepare for Technical Glitches

    • Remote work has its perks, but lets face it – it also comes with the inevitable tech troubles. A sudden WiFi outage, a power cut, or a charger giving up on you mid-meeting, being ready for these interruptions can save you a lot of frustration. 
    • Expect the unexpected: 
      • Backup power: Keep a portable charger or power bank on hand to charge your devices during a power cut.
      • Internet woes: For WiFi drops, consider using your phone’s hotspot temporarily to stay connected. Always have important files saved offline or backed up to the cloud, just in case.
      • Extra accessories: Have spare chargers and cables handy, especially if you’re prone to misplacing them or if your devices start acting up.
    • By planning ahead, you can avoid feeling frazzled when things go wrong and stay productive through any tech mishaps.

    Move Your Body

    • Sitting at your desk for hours can take a toll on your health, so make movement a regular part of your day. UK guidelines recommend at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week, so find small ways to get moving. 
    • Pro tip: Schedule short breaks for a quick walk or stretch. Even just standing up and doing a few stretches or house chores can refresh your mind and body. Why not try 5-15 minutes of movement per hour?  

    Set Clear Boundaries

    • When your home is your office, it’s easy for work to bleed into your personal life. Setting boundaries between your workday and downtime helps prevent burnout and keeps your work-life balance in check. 
    • Top tip: Create a ‘clock-out’ routine, whether it’s closing your laptop, going for a walk, or even changing your clothes to signal the end of your workday.

    Step Outside

    • You don’t have to be glued to your desk all day. Taking a few minutes to step outside can reduce stress, improve your mood, and even boost productivity. 
    • Take advantage of the outdoors: A morning coffee in the garden or a lunchtime stroll, getting some fresh air helps clear your mind and refresh your focus.

    Keep it fun and fresh

    • Your breaks don’t need to involve mindless scrolling. Why not use your downtime to learn something new, stretch, or even try a quick meditation?
    • Our top ideas:
      • Practice a new skill with online tutorials. 
      • Do a short yoga session. 
      • Journal to clear your mind. 
      • Take 10 minutes to relax with a mindfulness exercise.

    Upskill During Downtime

    • Working from home gives you the chance to focus on personal and professional development. With the time saved on commuting, consider learning something new. 

    Make the most of remote working!

    Remote work isn’t just about flexibility and comfort—it’s about expecting the unexpected. Working from home can be a game changer, offering flexibility, comfort, and a better work-life balance. However, staying productive and maintaining connections with your colleagues takes planning and creativity. By setting a routine, staying active, and using the right tools, you can make remote work not only effective but also enjoyable. 

    So, how are you making the most of your time working from home? Give some of these tips a try, and see how small changes can make a big difference!