The government announced that during lockdown 3 everyone who can, should home work. Working in a different environment can be challenging, especially when you are not used to it, so I have put together some tips for you!
I already work from home with Mumbler so for me, there is no change. I am used to home working, and after the joy of not having to commute has worn off, it can be very isolating!
Here are some tips I have learnt along the way of being a home worker for the last 3 years:
- If you can, try and allocate an area that is separate from your family life to work in, as it is so easy to keep working longer than you normally would of an evening. Having a door to close on your work at the end of the day is as good as leaving an office.
- Ideas for home offices are using a dining room, putting a desk in your kid’s bedroom whilst they are at school or using a spare bedroom.
- Set up your desk so you are comfortable, try a different number of chairs from around the house until you feel comfortable.
- The height of a screen is key to making sure you don’t get back problems. It could be as easy as using some books to raise the screen to the correct level!
- I would definitely recommend getting out of your PJs every morning. It is so easy to not get changed but it makes you feel so much better!
- Ensure you get a change of scenery every day, whether this is going for a walk or sitting in the back garden.
- Keep in contact with colleagues on a daily basis via video calls or What’s App.
- Take regular breaks. When you work from home your step count is rubbish!! Make sure you get up, do something to make you stop and take a rest. As you’re at home, this could be putting the washing on, tidying a room, going up and down your stairs a few times or going for a walk around the block!
- Take a lunch break, it’s so easy to just have 10 minutes when you’re homeworking!
- Keep in communication with your friends!
- If you are fit and healthy, look for ideas to keep up with other local families in the area of a weekend, make sure you’ve got something planned to look forward too – check the Wharfedale & Craven Mumbler website for lots of ideas!
- Keep talking and share your experiences with others!
- Use the Wharfedale & Craven Mumbler chat group to share your top tips and to keep in contact with other parents!