How Covid-19 Contributed To Increased Remote Working

• Author: Jeffrey Simmons
• Posted: 2022-06-16 00:00:02

The pandemic of Covid-19 has led to a large shift toward remote working. Many people are now working from home, which has both benefits and drawbacks. For the last few years, there's been a slow and steady rise in the number of people working remotely, but Covid-19 has caused that number to skyrocket. Most companies and businesses have embraced the move after realizing its benefits. These include:

• Increased Productivity
• Cost-effectiveness
• Improved work-life balance

However, there are also some disadvantages to working remotely worth consideration, including:
• Isolation and loneliness
• Distractions at home
• Difficulty staying motivated

If you are new to working remotely, here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Set up A Dedicated Workspace in Your Home

Working from home has become the new normal for many people, and it can be a challenge to create a functional and comfortable space. If you're lucky enough to have a spare room that you can use as an office, that's great. However, if you're limited to a corner of the living room or kitchen table, try to maintain a consistent work schedule to help your body and mind to adjust to the new routine. Ensure that your workspace has enough light and is free of distractions.

2. Create A Daily Routine and Stick To It

Having a set schedule makes it easier to focus on specific tasks and get more done. As a result, you'll feel less stressed and overwhelmed. In addition, a daily routine can increase your energy levels and improve your sleep quality. While it may take some time to get used to it, the benefits are worth it. Remote workers should embrace this strategy to create a more efficient and productive workday.

3. Take Breaks throughout the Day

Anyone who has ever worked remotely would quickly get busy and forget to take breaks. However, it's important to remember that breaks help maintain your productivity as the mind rests and rejuvenates. As a result, you'll be able to come back to your work feeling refreshed and ready to tackle anything. Set a timer and make sure you step away from your work when the timer goes off. Also, keep a list of things you need to do throughout the day, and remember to take a break after every few items on the list. In the process, you'll be able to stay productive and avoid burnout.

4. Stay Connected With Your Co-Workers and Team

There are many benefits to working remotely, but staying connected with your co-workers and team can also be challenging. Here are a few tips to help you stay connected:
• Make sure to schedule regular check-ins with your team to discuss projects, offer feedback, and brainstorm solutions.
• Use video conferencing whenever possible to create a more personal connection and allow you to read body language cues.
• Utilize collaborative tools, such as Google Docs or Trello, to work on projects together in real-time to save time and ensure everyone is on the same page.
• When possible, meet up in person for events or outings to bond with your team and build relationships outside of work.

By following these tips, you can stay connected while still enjoying the benefits of working remotely.

5. Set Boundaries between Work and Home Life

One of the critical challenges of working remotely is maintaining a healthy balance between work and home life. It's easy to allow work to take over your life, especially when there are no set office hours or physical boundaries between your workspace and your living space. However, it's essential to set clear boundaries to protect your mental health and avoid burnout.

Establish set office hours and stick to them as much as possible. Turn off your email notifications outside of work hours, and resist the urge to check work messages after hours. If possible, create a dedicated workspace in your home, separate from the rest of your living space. It'll help you mentally "clock out" at the end of the day and enjoy some much-needed downtime. On the other hand, getting plenty of exercise and disconnecting from work completely on weekends will help you maintain a healthy balance.

Remote working is here to stay, and Covid-19 has only accelerated its growth. Consider these tips to help you make the most of it. Besides, the pandemic has changed every sector and global economy, and the new normal will be different from what we knew before, including how we work, study, and socialize.