Working from Home — Mindfully
Most of the world has shifted to a new norm which has re-defined the meaning of the word ‘Office’. A year ago, if someone would have told me to picture a scenario where I can work in my pyjamas, from the comfort of home and most importantly, not having to wake up with the birds, just to beat traffic and be on time, I would have laughed and said “Yeah right, Great fantasy!”
But here we are, living a life which is, literally a dream come true for quite some people. But like a coin, every good thing has its bad side. In this context, it would be monotony, being stuck in an endless routine; in simple terms, lack of flavor.
If this resonates with you, here are some tried-n-tested practices that I’ve added as part of my daily routine while working remotely. Read on!
1. Set up a clean and pleasant workspace
Believe me, this will work like magic!
Set up your workspace near a window where you can get ample sunlight and fresh air
Try to keep your station minimalistic. Less stuffs, less chances of it getting messy.
Décor the space with some quotes, indoor plants or clock. Always keep a bottle of water handy but avoid having meals at your workspace.
2. A morning ritual
Remember that alarm you have setup, just 10 mins before your first meeting? Yeah, do not do that. Instead, start your day with a positive vibe!
Wake up at least 1 hour before you need to log in and give your mind, body a positive energy by walking outside for 10 minutes.
Have a good nutritious breakfast while listening to your favorite music.
Before you start your work, make a to-do list based on priority of tasks.
3. Have a kit-kat and take a break
Self-care is utmost important in keeping you relaxed and therefore productive.
Block your calendar to keep your lunch/tea time a meeting-free zone. Take your time and enjoy your food.
Don’t underestimate the power of having a cup of your favorite beverage, watching the setting sun in your balcony.
Try not to stay glued to same spot for long periods of time. Connect headphones if the meeting continues for more than 30 minutes and attend it by taking a walk.
4. Ask For Help!
While taking initiative and being reliable is great, being I-know-it-all and I-do-it-all person all the time, will eventually burn you out.
If you feel stuck with a problem, ask around. They can be your friend, colleague, boss; anyone with whom you feel comfortable
You might have a fear of being judged but trust me, majority of times people are eager to help and guide. You just need to step out of your house of assumptions.
Also, a quick side note, try to be observant, especially in early stages of your career; how people manage similar situation in different ways. It will help you in your growth.
5. Get that Balance
Work Life Balance = Personal Needs + Professional Needs
Work-life balance involves a mixture of time management, commitment and most importantly, prioritization. Learning to prioritize effectively is a key skill if you want to achieve this balance.
If your work makes you to spend more time on a regular basis, communicate to your manager or HR and get it sorted. Do not just assume and sit back.
Communication is the key for healthy work life balance. Make it a habit to have open, honest conversation with your manager if you feel overloaded.
6. Take care of your body
Try to eat and stay healthy
I can’t stress it enough — add fresh fruits between your daily meals. Just grab the easy ones; papaya, apples, bananas, grapes or any fruit of your choice. Have it whole(preferable) or blend in a milkshake.
Along with fruits, having a protein rich diet is paramount to our health. Foods like almonds, walnuts, oats, paneer, etc, are quick and tasty options.
Taking care of the body is incomplete without the most infamous E-word. Yes, Exercise it is 😜. But contrary to popular misconception, it does not mean hitting the gym or doing cardio till your lungs fall out. Imagine a cloudy weather, you putting on your headphones, selecting your grooving playlist and heading out for a walk — Congrats! you just took care of your body.
7. Wrap it up and Enjoy
Don’t just shut your laptop but your work-thoughts too.
Before you log off the day, have a quick check on the status of your work and list out the completed and pending tasks to start afresh the next day
Make sure to clean your workspace before you leave
Sit down and have a chat with your family or friends during this time and just enjoy.
8. Taking care of your mind
This should be the most important part of your daily routine
Sit in silence for 10 minutes before you go to sleep. Keep your mobile phones and other electronic gadgets away. This helps your mind and body to align and result in good sleep.
Journal your day to document anything good that happened or to just let go of the frustration or anger.
It is paramount that you take time out to unwind, be it after your work or some weekend plans. Just because you can’t step out of the house does not mean you can’t have fun. Read that book or watch some sitcom or movies, try your hand at cooking or watch a nature’s documentary(really soothing ) or have a self-love spa day. Spend time for the things you love to do, which brings you joy. This will keep your spirits up and your mental health in excellent condition.
If you have reached this far, thank you for reading this blog, I hope it was of insight to you 😃 . Check out our ‘Lifelong Learner in Workplace’ blog to know some important tips on growth. Give us a Follow for more such content on technology, productivity, work habits and more!
