5 Ways To Make Working From Home Less Stressful
Some of us are fortunate enough to be able to work from home, especially in these extraordinary times. There’s no nerve-racking drive to the office, and meetings can be done virtually at the comfort of your living area.
While this setup seems appealing, working from home can also get overwhelming. You need to find a balance between Zoom meetings and household chores, not to mention taking care of the kids. Suddenly, you find yourself exhausted by the time the clock strikes 7pm. So how do you deal with the new demands of a WFH setup? Here are five tricks to make your day less crazy.
STICK TO A ROUTINE
Creating a daily schedule—and sticking to it as often as you can—is like having a map that helps you navigate a busy day. A clear-cut routine helps put things in order and lets you get things done on time.
Set three major goals per week, then break them down into small tasks so you can easily accomplish each goal. Write all these tasks down to serve as your visual reminder. By the end of the month, you’ll have done most (if not all) of your to-do lists!
STAY ORGANIZED
To minimize the chaos of working from home, designate a quiet space in your nest where you can focus on beating those deadlines (that is, if you don’t have a home office). Stay on top of things by keeping your workspace organized. Store documents and reference materials in filing boxes, and corral office supplies in organizers that you can stow away when not in use.
Alejandro Office Supplies / Files Organizer
If you find yourself constantly moving from one area to another, use a portable work desk that you can effortlessly fold and keep out of sight when you’re done. A boxy tote where you can store files in is also handy.
Sergio Portable Office Files Tote
KEEP THINGS WITHIN REACH
Sifting through stacks of paper just to find that one document you need to scan can be annoying, not to mention time-consuming. Therefore, make sure the items you use on a daily basis are accessible. For instance, group printing materials like the printer, scratch paper, extra ink cartridges, and a ream of bond paper in one area. Store small items like paper clips, stapler and staple wire, pens, and markers in a compartmentalized tray on your desk.
SUBSCRIBE TO A PLAYLIST (OR TWO)
You’ll be surprised how music can help you get into work mode. Thanks to Spotify’s pre-selected playlists, you can listen to any tune to help you conquer that to-do list. Whether you’re into jazz, pop, hip-hop, classical, lo-fi, or just about any music genre, Spotify has you covered.
REWARD YOURSELF
You deserve some “me” time after replying to three dozen emails, attending to two Zoom meetings, and preparing a 20-page presentation (all these in between taking care of the family and running your household!). Pour yourself a glass of vino, indulge in a new Netflix series or revisit a favorite book, light a scented candle, and give yourself a pat on the back for a job well done.
