1. Create a makeshift office space
Preferably away from the kitchen or TV. If you have a spare room, set up your workstation there.
2. Stick to your schedule
Working from home may be a different environment, but the day unfolds the same! Make an effort to wake up at the same time, exercise at the same time, and find a way to leverage the extra time you have now that you don't have to commute. More time to cook breakfast, stretch, or just have some quiet time.
3. Use technology to your advantage
There are loads of free apps available to keep you connected and communicating with your colleagues (e.g. Slack, Zoom, Skype). You can also use chrome extensions to track time, block distractions, or plan your day.
4. Dress comfortably, but not in your PJ's
Putting on some "real clothes" every now and then can help your mental state :) Looking good means feeling good. If nifty sweatpants or leisure wear is your thing, try on your jeans at least once a week :-)
5. Eat healthy!
Being at home can feel like a vacation but it is just as important (now more than ever) to eat nourishing foods. Lock the fridge if you have to, put unhealthy snacks out of sight, stick to planned meals and snack times. Don't eat at your desk.
6. Get moving
Get up every hour for 5-10 minutes to do do some physical activity (set an alarm for this if you have to). There are excellent Tabata (high impact power exercises from 5 to 15 minutes) videos on Youtube.
7. Get sufficient shut-eye & relaxation
Sleep according to your circadian rhythm and do not sit in front of your desk 16 hours a day. Make time to relax, meditate, have coffee in the garden, watch an intriguing documentary (binge watching COVID-19 news is not relaxing).
8. Pay attention to ergonomics
Elevate your computer to eye level to avoid neck/back strain. Perhaps place a rolled towel at the small of your back to ensure you sit upright on your chair.
9. Remove distractions
Disconnect your social media accounts or switch off notifications during office hours so that you are not tempted to pay attention to every ping, buzz, or vibration. Listen to a focus music playlist to create white noise if you are not used to working in complete silence.
10. Time blocking
Set aside specific time to check out the news. Compartmentalize your time so you're not easily distracted by household chores. Multitasking is a myth, stay focused on the task you are busy with.
