Everyday work-life has changed for so many following the discovery of COVID-19, with national and worldwide changes implemented to prevent the spread of infection. Many businesses have adapted and embraced the idea of flexible working from home as a productive solution for the business, whilst also importantly helping to keep employees safe and well.
But if the novelty of working from home is wearing thin and you’re struggling with finding a balance to the new way of working, our blog is for you!
We explore 6 simple tips that you can do right now to help improve and boost your wellbeing whilst you are working remotely.
TIP 1 – Set a schedule and try to stick to it
One of the many issues that arise when working at home is that work can bleed into your home life, it can be very difficult to switch off when work is so close and very easy to do another 10 minutes or check your emails if you don’t structure your day.
Getting the work-life balance right can be tricky, but it’s important to make a plan when you’ll be starting your day, when you are taking your lunch break and when you’ll be finishing your workday.
TIP 2 – Taking a break
It’s easy to start working and get caught up in what you’re doing, but it’s important for your wellbeing to take regular breaks throughout the day.
Try to take the same breaks that you would if you were in the office. Whether they are short comfort breaks throughout the day or a longer lunch break, stopping work and having a bite to eat away from the desk will help to break the day up and you’ll likely be more focused and productive on the work you’re completing during the afternoon.
TIP 3 – Stretch
Getting out of the house regularly for exercise is important but it’s also great to stay active whilst working at home. Leaving your desk at least once every hour just for a minute or two will let your body know that you’re still awake and you will feel more refreshed for the next batch of concentration.
Here are some easy to do tips to help improve your general wellbeing:
– Get up and stretch every hour
– Breathe deeply
– Walk up and down the stairs
– Get up and get a drink of water or a healthy snack
– Invest in a desk that gives you the flexibility to sit or stand
TIP 4 – Enjoy the fresh air and natural light
Getting outside among trees and green space for five minutes or more can boost your thinking and mood, making it a simple way to improve your wellbeing.
So, whether you go out into the garden, go for a walk, or a gentle jog as part of your daily exercise, leaving the house can help improve your mood, reduce the feeling of stress or anger, lower blood pressure, and improve physical health.
With so many great benefits, what are you waiting for, go outside and help improve your health and happiness 🙂
TIP 5 – Taking time off (sick leave)
Working from home is often seen as a perk, but under COVID-19, working remotely has been essential for many businesses. The benefits to organisations include increased productivity and greater flexibility from team members. But people working from home also tend to take fewer sick days which can have a negative impact on the quality of work produced or in some circumstances can increase the chances of long-term illnesses.
If you are unwell then you should take the time off needed to get yourself back to good health. Trying to power through when you are unwell can be counter-productive, you are more likely to make errors, you’ll be less productive, and it could take longer for you to recover.
Let people know that you need to take time off and rest until you are well again.
TIP 6 – Having the right equipment
Whether you have converted the dining table into a makeshift office or you are lucky enough to have a dedicated home office space, ensuring you have the right workspace furniture and equipment that provides comfort and flexibility is a worthy investment in our opinion.
Home office furniture ranges that you may require to be able to carry out your daily duties include:
- Desk or table
- Ergonomic chair
- Storage
- Accessories including footrests, document holders, laptop risers, or a separate keyboard or mouse.
If there are tools you need to help you work effectively and comfortably when you’re at home, then you should discuss your requirements with your manager or someone else in the company who can review your circumstances and provide positive support and help where required.
Find out more about how you can improve your working at home experience by reading our ‘Guide to working remotely’
Explore our range of home office furniture here
Last Updated on May 6, 2022
