As we all try to adapt and get used to the ‘new normal’ of working from home for the foreseeable future, how can we ensure our productivity isn’t affected?

With the majority of the UK setting up temporary offices in their homes, we ask how to best structure your day in your new surrroundings. Routine seems to be the key to maintaining regular work levels and ensures distractions are kept to a minimum. Follow our ten top tips to get the most out of your working day while self-isolating:

1. Set your alarm: Get up at your usual time, take a shower, eat your breakfast, start the day off as you would on any usual working day. Experts have suggested leaving your home for a walk around the block and re-entering your home to ‘start work’ is beneficial to separate your home and office as your usual commute would.

 

2. Timekeeping: Ensure you stick to your normal working hours to maintain a routine. It may be tempting to continue working but it’s important to separate your working hours and your down time.

 

3. Dress to impress: Sitting around in pyjamas all day isn’t conducive to getting work done. Dress as you would to attend the office, you’ll feel more productive and be prepared for any impromptu video meetings from clients or your colleagues.

 

4. Create a workspace: If you don't have a desk, use your dining room/kitchen table. Besides making you feel like you're at an office, this helps you maintain good posture and avoid distractions. By having a defined area designated for work, you also feel you can leave your work behind at the end of the day.

 

5. Limit social media and news: The constant evolving nature of the corona virus’ impact can quickly become overwhelming. Limit yourself to only listening to the radio, watching TV updates or viewing news apps to 3 times a day. This will ensure you’re up to date with latest changes but not consume your day.

 

6. Set boundaries: Notify your family members/house mates that if your door is closed, or you are at your desk then you are not to be disturbed. Set your lunch break for the same time every day so you can help children with homework, walk the dog or make your lunch with housemates.

 

7. To do list: As per any working day, set out your tasks for that day and keep on track against it.

 

8. Keep in touch: Use your laptop or phone to conduct regular calls/video calls. Switching from emails to calls and calls to video chats is a brilliant way to keep virtually in touch while in isolation. Not only will this let your team know your progress on your projects, but it will provide a social aspect to your day.

 

9. Get some fresh air: Since you are in isolation unfortunately, you're going to spend a lot of time indoors. So, open your windows to let in as much natural daylight and fresh air as possible, and take short walks and exercise if you live in an unpopulated area or have a garden — and be sure to wash your hands as soon as you return home.

 

10. Use your sick leave: If you are too ill to work, you’re too ill to work. Don’t be a hero, home workers are allowed to be sick too.

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