Remote working – love it or hate it, everyone has an opinion. Once considered a niche perk, it’s something many of us now experience regularly. Sure, working from home suggests cosy jumpers, endless cups of tea and maybe the odd distraction from a furry friend – but anyone who’s truly mastered it knows there’s a lot more to it than comfort and convenience.
Making remote work is about creating structure, focus and balance and adopting different habits. Here are some practical strategies to help keep things productive and enjoyable too.
Set Clear Boundaries
One of the biggest challenges is knowing when to switch off. Without boundaries, work and life blend together fast. A few things that help:
- Having set start and finish times each day.
- Turning off notifications outside of work hours.
- Creating a simple end-of-day ritual, whether that’s tidying your desk or stepping outside for a walk (dog optional).
Stay Connected – Even Virtually
Structured team meetings keep everyone aligned on work and objectives, but informal chats matter just as much. Virtual coffee breaks or casual catchups help replicate those spontaneous office conversations that build relationships and team spirit.
Invest in Your Workspace
The sofa is tempting, but your back and your productivity will thank you for a suitable desk set up. Working space, ergonomic chairs, good lighting all signal to your brain that it’s “work time,” helping you stay productive and comfortable.
Protect Your Work-Life Balance
Boundaries only work if you actually stick to them. Take a real lunch break (away from the screen), get some fresh air and make time for hobbies or exercise. Without a commute to signal the start and end of your day, it’s up to you to build in the pauses that keep you sane and prevent burnout.
Remote work is a skill, and, like any it improves with practice, structure and the right mindset.
The good news? Once you find a rhythm that works for you, it can be incredibly rewarding – no matter where your desk is.