Over the last few years, many have increased or switched to spending more working hours in a home- based setting. If you are looking for a few tips to start or expand working healthy from home, continue reading a below:
- Routine – Establish a strong routine for your workday. Where will you work each day? What areas of your home are off limits for any work-related activities? If you are able to directly dedicate a work space in your home, this can help create the correct mindset and help limit distractions. If not directly set by your employer, ensure you have a start and end time for your work day as well and stick to that schedule.
- Breaks – Ensure you are taking regular breaks throughout your work day. If able, try including a 5-10 minute break every hour. If you are able to do breaks that include movement (i.e. walking, stretching, light house work), you may see increased productivity, motivation, concentration and energy when you return back to your work station.
- Distractions – Take control of any media distractions present in your home (phone, television, etc.). Turn off non-essential notifications or set any devices to do not disturb. Use timers, reminders or other alarms that help keep you on task when you step away for breaks or find yourself fighting the same distraction overtime.
- Connection – Ensure you are continuing connection with team members if you don’t see each other regularly. Reach out to team members, schedule regular check-ins or connection times, and prioritize collaborating and connecting with purpose. If you are able to attend work related functions in-person, do so as able. Social connection may look different for everyone, so evaluating what’s important for your relationships will also help navigate social connection when working outside the office.
- Nutrition – Keep your house stocked with a wide variety of nutritious food, as you have quick access to all food options within your home. Keep a well-stocked fridge and pantry with quick snacks (nuts, trail mix, whole grain crackers, cheese sticks, cottage cheese, protein bars, hard boiled eggs, fresh fruits and your favorite nut butter) and easy to make meals (100% whole wheat bread or wrap options to keep at home, as well as keeping spreads like hummus or guacamole on hand, and things to pack your wrap or sandwich with like your favorite veggies, lowfat cheeses and lean proteins).