Posted by Carly James - July 23rd 2020
How many of us are currently getting up 5 minutes before that 9am Zoom meeting to attend in trackies and fluffy socks?
In theory, this sounds like one of the benefits of working from home. I'm not here to rain on your parade (if the socks are working, don't change it for me!) - but the comfortable option can sometimes hinder motivation, productivity, and ultimately, wellbeing.
The brain LOVES routine and it will thank you for it, if you use routine to drive the habits that work for you. Getting a routine might feel harder in times of change (hello 2020!)… but it's definitely possible.
Here are my top 3 tips to maintaining a routine when working from home
- Keep your morning routine. "Work to walk" even if you are at home. A 15 minute power walk around the block before you start your day will feel like your usual walk to work and also give you the added benefit of releasing some endorphins and staying active.
- Have a designated 'work area'. Keep it distraction free. If you don't need it, put your phone away. Instagram will still be there at the end of your work day. If you need a break, take it, but spend it in another area of your place. This could be the kitchen or dining area.
- Sleep. Easier said than done though right? Sleep is particularly important to brain health and in turn, to everyday function. Try to maintain a consistent bedtime routine. Working from home can make it much easier to sleep in (and may just be why we keep having those weird dreams in the morning) but if we are going to bed at the same time, our bodies might not need this extra time.
I'm running a lunchtime webinar about getting a routine for your WFH life on Monday 3rd August. Click here to find out more.
