10 things to better your work life in isolation (from a seasoned remote worker!)

Adjusting to the new social isolation norm? The irony is, you’re not alone.

Image Description: Mother smiling at phone on bed with infant son and work laptop

As individuals, couples, families, businesses and communities across the globe grapple with the spread of that horrid C word, we’ve never been more united on one front – learning how to keep a positive and productive at-home mind in the thick of an outbreak.

For those of us who have moved our office to the kitchen table, we may have already caved in to the appeal of staying in our PJs all day… but without a set routine or healthy work-life balance, it’s easy for things to get a little messy when stuck inside.

As a seasoned remote worker myself, I've lived through the struggle of not only how to stay focussed and productive day-in day-out, but also how to keep happy, healthy and avoid that dreaded remote-lonesomeness. I can happily say it's entirely possible, with a few tips from those who have mastered the process over a lifetime - here they are (plus a few additions of my own!)

1. Create an at-home office.

Not having a designated work space can often take a toll on productivity. When bills are scattered all over the table, the vacuum cleaner’s left out, you don’t have a good work chair or you’re relying on having your computer on your lap in bed, it’s going to be a mental AND physical struggle to get into the zone and concentrate on the job. Have a think about how comfortable your physical setup is; if the kitchen table works for you, stick to it. Otherwise consider changing up your space every now and then or when beginning a new project, if you’re in need of new inspiration or a different environment to change things up.

Extra tip: If you have an outdoor space such as a backyard or balcony, use it! Make sure you’re getting enough fresh air and vitamin D to stay balanced, especially now during isolation limits. If not, open the blinds – enough natural light can turn a dark and gloomy room into a bright and uplifting work space.

2. Tune into inspiration.

Whether that's Spotify or starting your morning with a quick at-home workout, find your jam and incorporate it into your daily routine. Starting your day with the right energy can improve productivity. Bonus points for starting it with a shower and clean teeth.

Extra tip: If you’re finding that you’re feeling pretty lonely working from home or the room seems ‘empty’, try switching up music to radio talkback – it can be a comforting background voice on the low. (I personally prefer the weird corners of Spotify like 'spa treatment' and 'nature sounds', but you know, you do you).

3. Opt for a daily phone call or video chat.

While it seems that we’re all connected digitally, relying on text and emails will inevitably lead to maximum feelings of separation. Opting for video chats and phone calls wherever possible is the next best option for human interaction, especially if you’re after meaningful communication.

Extra tip: Try sending daily or weekly voice recordings to friends and family - what you've been up to and how you are. You never know, it might help the person on the other end too. This can also work well for those who don’t have time for a long chat, or who are after a friendly voice at a low point.

4. Set realistic goals.

Have a schedule and plan what you want to achieve for the day, so that you experience a sense of fulfilment when you’ve ticked it off… but be conscious of separating your home to-do list and work tasks to avoid being overwhelmed. 

Just think: if you couldn’t tackle that washing pile previously because you'd otherwise be in the office, then why do it now? It can wait!

Extra tip: Many who work regularly from home share the advice of getting dressed first thing in the morning into work attire, as a physical reminder of being ‘on the job’. I've found it helps a little - try it for a few days and see what it does for you!

5. Switch off.

Log. Out. Of. Your. Social. Media. Accounts. As a digital marketer this one's easy for me, because more often than not I'm logged into business accounts without the constant buzzing of personal notifications. So if you're too distracted to get into the zone, there's only one answer: Remove the temptation. It’s the best way to stay productive without the constant 'need' to check notifications. Don't panic... just schedule in a time to check the socials (and the actual news) such as on a lunch break or at the end of the day.

Extra tip: If you’re in the digital space or logging out isn’t an option, try muting all non-important notifications temporarily or until a break.

6. Have a break from the screen.

Additional screen time is inevitable when working from home, which means we need to be more conscious of switching off. Going from a mobile, to a laptop, to a tablet in front of the TV at night can easily mean that we’re glued to a screen every waking hour. Be conscious of choosing hobbies that don’t require one, such as spending time outside, cooking a new recipe, reading a book, staring at a plant or exercising.

Extra tip: Have you heard of the 20-20-20 rule to prevent eye strain? The rule is that for every 20 minutes at a screen, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds…. it’s a great reminder to take frequent breaks, as well as to reduce the likelihood of complete and utter blindness. (Words of my optometrist, not me).

7. Meal prep.

For some it’s a struggle, for others it’s a hobby. But if one thing’s for sure, it’s that pre-preparing meals at home can save a lot of time wasted throughout the day scouting the pantry or becoming distracted in the kitchen. Keep it simple – there’s plenty of inspiration out there – and you’ll find it will remove the stress of deciding what to eat, as well as where to find it, with supermarket shelves at an all-time low.

Extra tip: If you seriously hate cooking or you’re stuck for ideas, just meal-kit it - most are still delivering, but check HelloFresh, Dinnerly, Marley Spoon or YouFoodz for updated information.

8. Walk around and stretch every hour.

If you’ve got a step-counter, get it clicking! Working from home makes it easier than ever to fall into the habit of sitting all day, so make the effort to have a quick walk and stretch every hour – your back, neck (and overall health) will thank you for it.

Extra tip: There's no shortage of inspiration on YouTube, with something for every physical ability and time limit... so no excuses!

9. Create a rewards system.

Often the best incentive to get a project out of the way is to have something to look forward to for when it’s done. Rewarding yourself with a quick snack or 5 minute break will help keep you fulfilled as well as on track for the day.

Extra tip: Make it something that’s actually rewarding… putting on a load of washing or getting to have a shower, doesn't count.

10. Have clear rules if working with kids.

When working from home, half the battle can be trying to concentrate on the job with one eye on everyone else. If you find yourself in this situation, be clear of your expectations; give everyone a heads up if you’re about to go on a call or into a virtual meeting, and ensure they understand the ‘do-not-disturb’ sign on the door. For kids, try planning things that don’t require supervision, such as favourite TV shows, craft activities or online learning/educational apps for older children.

Extra tip: Friends, family, grandparents, or even a friendly neighbour might be able to help out on an extremely 'crap' day with a virtual playdate or planned activity through a video call.