WORKING FROM HOME AND IMPORTANCE OF ROUTINE

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With many of us now growing accustomed to working from home it is important to ensure we are sticking to a sustainable long term routine. With the realities of many companies now planning to maintain a remote workforce for months to come, it is important for all of us to look at both our physical set up and also our wellbeing. Routine is a huge factor in this. You may have found yourself falling out of a healthy routine over the last few months, this is understandable in the midst of a global pandemic! However, it is important to ensure we incorporate an achievable daily routine into our lives.

START THE DAY RIGHT!

Wake up at your usual time. Take some time to yourself before you start working. Maybe your commute previously was a time for you to take a few quiet moments before working. It is a great idea to incorporate some meditation or mindfulness into your morning routine. Carry out your normal morning tasks i.e. breakfast away from your workstation, get dressed just as if you are going to work. Consider avoiding checking the news or social mediate immediately in the morning.

WORKDAY ROUTINE WHEN WORKING FROM HOME

Make a daily plan for what is realistic and achievable for you, avoid overscheduling. Make it clear when you are working if you are sharing a space. These boundaries are important in achieving a sustainable home office routine. Try to ensure you are not interrupted where possible. Flexibility is key- something which we are all learning to improve on since working from home commenced. Accept that it will be difficult to maintain a rigid schedule.

BREAKS

Regular breaks both for your mind and body are important. Do try to plan your meals and ensure you have these meals away from your workspace. It may even mean closing and packing away equipment if you are limited by space. Incorporate movement at break times where possible - change your posture e.g. switch from sitting to standing, go for a walk, or stretch. Take breaks to do something you enjoy such as listening to music or a podcast. Plan for regular working hours and try to reasonably stick to this as possible.

AFTER WORK ROUTINE

Once finished your workday at your planned time try to use your evening to unwind. This has a huge impact on your sleep which in turn has an impact on your productivity. Do something you enjoy and that helps you feel relaxed before bed. If possible spend your evenings away from your workspace or pack away your work equipment.

ERGONOMICS SUPPORT FOR YOUR COMPANY

To learn more about office setup and good ergonomics principles, you can reach out to Fit for Work to talk about how an ergonomic programme within your office can increase productivity, increase staff satisfaction, improve staff retention and reduce sick leave.