In light of recent events and the likelihood of home office working becoming much more common across the country, Vari has put together six tips on staying productive at home.

Create a dedicated workspace

Don’t cut corners when setting up your workstation. If you have a small laptop, consider getting a monitor that will expand your visual workspace. Clear your area of any personal clutter (apart from decor) that could distract you from work mode.

Set work hours and expectations

Choose specific work hours that you’ll stick to and manage them with your family, friends, and coworkers. Your coworkers will be less likely to assume you’re always online, and your friends and family will be more likely to respect your work time. Setting limits will also help you be more focused. Take breaks as you would at an office, but don’t spend extended periods of time doing housework or giving in to distractions.

Get dressed

Working in your pyjamas sounds like a pretty good perk, but it may not be ideal for your productivity. We’re not saying you have to put on a suit, but try to at least change out of what you woke up in. This will help fight lethargy.

Give yourself light

Workplaces that are too dim can cause eye strain, while too much artificial light can cause sleepiness. Make sure you have at least two points of light, and ideally, one of these points should be natural light. Studies have shown that workers in natural light are happier and more productive than those who work in artificial light only. If you have weak overhead lighting, try setting up by a window or using a desk lamp.

Stay organised

This is important for productivity but equally important for fully enjoying after work hours. Leaving your office area messy creates an unwelcome reminder of what needs to get done. Use trays in drawers or file things away in cabinets to put papers and unfinished business out of sight. That way, you won’t be as likely to think about it when you’re trying to relax.

Stand up

Standing up at intervals throughout the day will boost your energy levels. It also significantly reduces your risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, dementia, and more.