Common Work-From-Home Mistakes and What You Should Do Instead
If you’re used to working solely in an office, transitioning to work from home can be a challenge. However, there are some simple tips you can implement to make the transition more seamless.
Working from home can be a difficult transition. Whether you're just starting out or have been a remote worker for years, you'll encounter bumps along the way. Sometimes, these obstacles turn into mistakes that make it a whole lot harder on you to finish your work or concentrate on a goal. These challenges can pop up even more frequently at home.
Knowing what stands in your way can make the difference between a productive workday or a stressful one. Here are some common work-from-home mistakes — and their solutions.
The Right Workspace
The first thing you'll want to perfect is in the area in which you work. Is it a home office? Is it your kitchen table? No matter where it is, you'll need the right setup — which should include tech, ergonomics, and setting boundaries with your personal life.
Your first mistake may be that you don't have limits with the people you live with or your out-of-work responsibilities. Without a separation, your work and personal lives will merge and disrupt your work tasks. Instead, disconnect and find the ideal setting for your work. Detach from your other responsibilities and distractions and focus on your work.
Maybe you need to change locations of where you work or speak with your housemates to set more boundaries. Either way, creating a stronger divide will help you get your tasks done.
Second, you may not be using technology to its fullest potential. If you're only using a laptop, you should test out incorporating more tech like another screen to have a dual-monitor setup. Branch you with the software you use, too. An outdated program won't have the speed and connectivity that newer platforms have. For instance, Google Drive is a must!
For your workspace, the last pitfall you may find yourself in is simply being uncomfortable. Ergonomics are important during work — they help you focus on the tasks at hand instead of an aching back or headache.
Adjust your lighting and make sure you have the right prescription for your vision to avoid headaches. Then, get a standing desk so you can stay active during the workday and change it up for your body. In fact, one study showed a 54% reduction in employee neck and back pain while using a standing desk.
The solutions are out there — it's time to get into the right space to work.
Time Management
Once you're all set with a good setup for working remotely, the next thing you should work on is your time management. It's so easy to fall behind — and it can be so hard to catch back up. Even just one missed deadline can throw off your flow.
Of course, you can use different systems for time management like Toggle or Rescue Time. There are plenty of apps and software out there that can help you stay on top of your projects — both during work and outside of it. Keep in mind, though, some lesser-known mistakes come about with unbalanced time management, too.
First, your schedule may be hindering your work. You'll need one that helps you get in the right mindset and stay there throughout the day. The solution is then to find the best routine. Maybe you need to wake up a bit earlier and take your time with your morning ritual before starting work. Maybe you need to jump right into your tasks. Maybe you need to change it all up if you're getting burnt out. Observe how you feel with your tweaks, it can make all the difference.
The next time management mistake is staying indoors too much. You should try to get as much fresh air as possible — while working, this necessity can easily slip your mind. Set reminders to exercise or go for walks after work. Remote work can sometimes keep you sedentary indoors — enjoy the outside whenever you can.
Last, don't make the mistake of having unbalanced breaks. Burnout is a real issue for all employees, and taking breaks is the solution. Whether it's five minutes or a week off, breaks of all kinds are necessary for you to unwind and destress. Make sure you use them to your advantage — don't forget about them!
Without these steps, your work-life balance can start to blur together. Manage your time well and you'll be all set to go.
Communication
Communication keeps the workplace going — whether it's remote or not. Staying in touch with your coworkers and supervisors is one thing, but communication goes above and beyond that, too. One common fix — and a recurring theme for each of these categories — is using technology. If you're not using the right apps, then communication may be lacking. Use platforms like Zoom and Slack to get in contact whenever you need to.
Next, don't forget to keep in touch with your coworkers. Remote work can become lonely without the socialization aspect. Make sure you join in on workplace events for bonding. If there aren't enough, try starting your own!
Last, but certainly not least, you must communicate your needs to your coworkers and supervisors. If something's not working, provide feedback on it. Let your managers know what can help you be more productive. Need schedule changes? Need to redistribute your workload? Opening up that conversation is the first step to a more efficient remote work environment.
Working From Home — the Right Way
Once you start working on the solutions for these mistakes, you'll notice an increase in your productivity as well as your overall happiness. Creating the right workspace, using time to your advantage and communicating clearly are the keys to the best work-from-home experience.
Shannon Flynn is an IT and biztech writer and the Managing Editor at ReHack.com. She has written for sites like TechDayHQ, Re-Work, and Innovation & Tech Today. Follow ReHack on Twitter or visit ReHack.com to read more of Shannon's work .