A vast majority of people – white and blue collared, professionals and businessmen — have been accustomed to working in offices. The raging Covid-19 pandemic worldwide has led to a shift in this custom as more and more are now working from their residence.

Work from home is now a new normal, which has thrown up its unique challenges requiring changes in our lifestyle and work culture and with proper effort one can stay productive and also take care of yourself and your loved ones.

Here are certain tips to make sure that the new way of life is positive and professionally beneficial too.

Keep a separate area as a workspace

In the house one needs to set up an area to be used as a workspace. Using it clearly signals the brain that it’s time to focus. While not working one must stay away from the designated workspace. Avoid any professional duties until you sit down to work again.

Move workspace around

In case it helps to concentrate by creating a mobile workspace, then set up a few spaces in the house where you can work. This helps in posture as one’s seating position changes. Also allocate a certain amount of time for each space to help in better time management.

Ergonomic workplace

Workplace should be ergonomic as this eliminates risk factors that lead to musculoskeletal injuries while allowing increased performance and productivity. The idea of sitting and working on a comfortable couch or bed may sound nice but using the laptop for long there could lead to straining of back and neck.

Start by getting ready for the day

Finish your normal morning routine work, bathe and get dressed for the day. Those going to the gym should do some workout at home itself.

Keep aside work clothes – the ones that make you feel comfortable. Set your hair and use make-up if you wish to, even if it is for yourself!

Keep a schedule

Create a daily schedule and put it in writing. Also have a detailed to-do list that’s broken down into categories based on importance. These should be visible to you in order to keep up with the schedule.

Have an eating plan

It is vital to plan out meals and snacks beforehand, to avoid wasting time in deciding at the last minute what to eat and landing up eating something which is unhealthy. Further, don't eat at the workstation.

Food choice is important so eat those items that boost memory, concentration, and alertness, such as pumpkin seeds, dark chocolate, and eggs. Further keep the intake of refined carbs, processed foods, and sugary drinks limited.

Creating a pop-up office

Those who don’t have a designated work space, can either place a cushion on the floor and use a coffee table or find a small portable folding table that can be used in the house. While using laptops on a flat surface on the bed or counter, make adjustments if you feel any musculoskeletal pain.

Clear the workspace

After finishing work clear the workspace and keep stationary, laptop and other things in their designated places. Ensure that the work area or space remains clutter free. This helps in working more efficiently.

Working with partner

Discuss the working styles compatibility and decide on workplace and handout and eating times. Distribute household chores beforehand.

Working with children

For those having a baby, use a baby carrier or wrap so you can keep the child close to you. In order to keep the hands free, use a dictation app. When on a call let the other person/s know that you have a baby at home in case there are any interruptions or noises.

Baby’s nap times should be used efficiently and one should use it to do work that needs focus and for conference calls.

In case of older children, one can make them take some extra responsibilities like taking care of their younger siblings or finishing some household chores.

Working early in the morning or late evenings, when children are asleep, is good especially for completing complex tasks.

Take care of children’s emotional needs

Staying at home and working does require adjustment on the part of your children. They may either feel intimidated or overstimulated. Give them extra care and affection.

Time management for children

Help children to entertain themselves but also manage their time well. Designate activities for them to keep them engaged. Limit their screen time a d be strict to set clear boundaries and consequences.

If one needs to share a screen with a child, set a clear time for that while making them understand that work is priority. While they are busy, finish those tasks that don’t require screen or take a break!