As the world becomes more technologically advanced, many employers can now offer their employees the freedom and tools to work remotely. In Japan, remote working has been promoted for several years as part of the Work Style Reform. However, for some people, remote working may be unfamiliar and a completely new way of working with new challenges.
Computer Futures has put together a list of top tips to help you plan your day whilst working from home and increase your productivity by integrating in-coming tasks into your daily routine.
1. Set your alarm clock and stick to a dress code
The first step to an effective working day at home is to make sure you don't neglect your usual morning routine. Make sure your alarm clock goes off at the same time as your normal workday. Although working in your comfortable pyjamas is a very tempting option, it's best to avoid it. It doesn’t have to be a suit, but try to dress as you would for a normal office day. In this way, you can indirectly tell your mind that you’re prepared to work.
In order to switch yourself into “work mode”, you might try creating a routine unique to working from home such as making a coffee at the beginning of the workday or spraying on your favourite room spray.
2. Create a daily to-do list
Self-discipline is an essential prerequisite for successful work in one's own home. Our tip: Before you start your work, you should create a realistic to-do list in which you enter all the tasks you want to complete that day. This way you can keep a better overview and concentrate on each individual task.
In addition to the to-do list, you could also set an exact time frame for your daily goals. Schedule your breaks so that you can really achieve your goals for the day. This will help you create a regular daily routine in your home office.
3. Make a dedicated space for your work
Working from home makes it difficult to separate your life and work. Therefore, if possible, prepare a room or space in your home that is dedicated to your work. Our brains become more productive if we can assign specific locations to specific activities.
You can arrange your work area in a way that you feel comfortable: for example, with plants and a high-quality office chair. Personalise your workplace - but be careful: too many photos and furnishing accessories are distracting. The following applies to computers, telephones and the like: the technology you need to work should be within easy reach and not at the other end of the home.
4. Get fresh air and exercise
When all of your work can be done by sitting at your laptop, you can quickly forget to take a short break. It is important to think about your own physical well-being and get out of the house for a short moment. Make time to go on a short walk during your lunch break and stretch your legs.
Your day at home can easily be very monotonous. If this continues, your work is likely to be less efficient. Make a conscious effort to take a five-minute break for work efficiency, mental stability, and good health.
It's also a good idea to devote the time that you would normally spend commuting to work to do some light exercise. A light exercise or walk, especially in the morning, will help you start your day in a good mood.
5. Stay away from social media
It may seem a bit drastic to some, but it will increase your concentration and efficiency: while you're working, log out of all your social media accounts, such as Facebook or Instagram. You'll save a lot of time and won't be tempted to scroll endlessly through the latest news. Take breaks to update yourself and then get back to your work without interruption.
6. Stay in touch with your colleagues
Try to be in regular contact with your colleagues. Be it by phone, Facetime or emails. Just exchanging a greeting such as “Good morning," "How are you doing?”, or “Speak soon” will make you feel good. Exchange ideas with them about your daily planning, learn from each other, share successes or defeats together. In this way, you will not only stay on the same level professionally, but you will also not feel too isolated.
7. Call it a day
It’s easy to work till late when you’re at the home office but try to finish your work at a regular time. Pack your working materials out of sight after work is done.
Just as you shouldn't be distracted by your private matters during working hours, make sure that you can relax and switch off after work.
In addition to the above tips, we would also be happy to share interesting ideas with you on how you can work effectively in your home office. Contact us in the form below. You may also follow us on LinkedIn for the latest industry updates and recruitment tips!
