{"id":51679,"date":"2020-04-03T13:34:12","date_gmt":"2020-04-03T20:34:12","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/world.edu\/?p=51679"},"modified":"2020-04-03T13:34:12","modified_gmt":"2020-04-03T20:34:12","slug":"5-ways-to-increase-productivity-working-remotely-during-covid-19","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/world.edu\/5-ways-to-increase-productivity-working-remotely-during-covid-19\/","title":{"rendered":"5 Ways to increase productivity working remotely during COVID-19"},"content":{"rendered":"

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There\u2019s no escaping it – we are in a global pandemic. Businesses like restaurants have shut down, and those daily commuters now commute from their bed to their desk instead of to the office. Even law firms<\/a> have transitioned from in-office work to now at-home work. \u00a0It\u2019s an abrupt and necessary transition, and we aren\u2019t alone in doing it.<\/p>\n

This time can be a confusing one. We are all having to shift our work minds to be at home, and there can be daily distractions that are here that aren\u2019t at the office. Since we all have to work remotely, or at least most of us have to, it\u2019s important we stay on top of our daily work tasks. Here are the top 5 ways to increase productivity while we work remotely during COVID-19<\/p>\n

Set Up a Workstation<\/strong><\/p>\n

Besides taking a deep breath, the first thing we remote workers can do is to set up a workstation! Since most of us will be in quarantine it\u2019s important we set up a station to tell ourselves when we will be in work mode. For starters, it\u2019s necessary to invest in the right equipment. Getting an ergonomic chair and a desk at an appropriate height are great tools. There is always a standing desk you could invest in if sitting isn\u2019t ideal for your back. If you aren\u2019t able to invest with a desk chair or a desk, try improvising with what you have at home! A workstation should benefit you, not hinder you. Setup what\u2019s best for you and what is necessary for your workstation.<\/p>\n

Establish a Routine<\/strong><\/p>\n

Working at home can be exciting at first, but after a while, a lack of routine can be productivity killers. This is why establishing a routine is necessary while we work from home. We easily have a routine when we commute to work: we drive to work, work at our workstation, eat lunch, go back to work, and then go home. But as we navigate working from home, that daily routine goes away. Establishing a schedule and sticking to it is what will increase work productivity. Without it, relaxation and work becomes intertwined and it\u2019s hard to differentiate the two. Treat every day as if you\u2019re going to the office. It\u2019s just instead of going outside, your office is your kitchen or desk.<\/p>\n

Self-Care!<\/strong><\/p>\n

Just like productivity is important, so is self-care. Telecommuting is easy and a lot can be done, but it can also take a toll on mental health. During COVID-19, it\u2019s especially important we take care of ourselves since we are trying to #FlattenTheCurve. But social distancing can also affect our minds heavily.<\/p>\n

During this time, take breaks! Remind yourself this won\u2019t last forever. If it becomes too much, take a walk outside, talk to a friend, or get some exercise. A little break every now and then is healthy and it can even increase your work drive.<\/p>\n

Avoid Distractions<\/strong><\/p>\n

We can\u2019t avoid it – when we are at home, there are distractions. There may be pets running around, kids at home, even TV blaring in the background. Without the office culture surrounding you, it\u2019s easy to be distracted in your own house while working.<\/p>\n

If you do notice yourself becoming distracted, here are some ways you can refocus:<\/p>\n