The shift to remote work has become the new normal for many, and more businesses than ever are considering it as a new way of working. Be it full-time or hybrid, over the course of your career, you may find yourself working in the comfort of your own home. But how exactly do you manage the struggles that can come with it, such as staying productive, finding tools to support you, and setting clear boundaries between home and work life?



Embracing the Remote Work Lifestyle

If you're new to remote working, it might seem daunting, especially if you're used to the office setup. However, with the right approach, remote work can offer many benefits, including a chance for more flexibility and a better work-life balance. Whether it's creating a cosy home office, enjoying personal hobbies during breaks, or finding ways to keep the connections you have with colleagues, such as regular virtual or in-person meetups, embracing the opportunities of remote will make sure the change is positive and doesn’t feel too far from what you’re used to in an office.


Maintaining productivity

Staying productive while working remotely can be tough, but it's a common challenge many face. A good first step is talking to your employer about your remote setup. This conversation might lead to support from them to ensure your working day is structured in the best way for your productivity. Many employers are open to feedback when it comes to working from home, and often consider new ways of working based on this to maintain a positive work environment for employees.

Alongside clear communication, setting up a dedicated workspace without distractions can really help improve your focus and how much work you get done. Plus, remember to make taking regular breaks and fitting in some time outdoors a priority. This can refresh your mind and prevent burnout, which keeps your productivity levels up in the long run.


Managing your work-life balance

To keep a healthy work-life balance, it's important to set boundaries between work and your personal life. One way to achieve this is to try and work separate from relaxation areas, to create a physical boundary between work and leisure. Sticking to your usual working hours and keeping to a routine will also help prevent work from going into your personal time. By setting clear boundaries and sticking to an office like routine, you can make sure that remote work is a positive to your overall quality of life and well-being.


Tools to support you whilst Working from Home

-       Working from home can be more efficient when you turn to online tools for support. If you’re working in digital, tools like Microsoft Connector are a great way to cut corners when doing your research. Microsoft Connector’s CoPilot can provide answers to your questions in just a few seconds. Resources can be widely found on Google, making sure upskilling and working effectively wasn’t just a thing of the office.

 

-       Looking for tools that will help you organise your workload and make collaboration with colleagues a breeze? Look no further than Asana and Trello. These platforms help with task management and improve team collaboration effortlessly.

 

-       And let's not forget about Teams! It's perfect for staying connected with colleagues through virtual meetings, making sure everyone remains on the same page no matter where they are. As a fully remote business, we rely on Teams not only for work related discussions but also for the kind of casual chats you'd typically have in the office. This means that the opportunity to build strong connections as a team isn’t missed due to remote working. 

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