Welcome to fall of 2021, an age where home and work collide for many employees as they navigate their company’s new hybrid-remote policy.
However, many are still caught off guard when it comes to their home workspace. It is time to upgrade your surroundings to meet your needs. These tips will help:
Ergonomic and health upgrades:
- Make sure you have a dedicated office or workspace.
- An ergonomic chair will give your back the love it needs.
- Improve your posture.
- The right keyboard, mouse and wrist pads will give your wrists the break they need.
- Plenty of light is important to your vision and optic health.
- A larger screen/monitor or two does wonders.
- Yoga and stretching mats will counteract hours of computer time, as well as mini-foam rollers and trigger point rollers to relieve tight muscles, improve range-of-motion and reduce inflammation.
- A non-messy environment is huge, along with your favorite productive background music.
- Make some “self-space” in your office for self-care moments like thinking, meditating and giving your mind a break.
- Schedule official breaks and take them.
Technology and operations upgrades:
- Quality sound speakers are a must, as well as fast internet, a reliable wireless router, docking hub(s), fast computer (or a desktop/laptop combo) and regular safety/security/software upgrades.
- Look into charging accessories to keep all your smart/mobile devices consistently powered.
- Maintain a separate phone number for work.
Efficiency and knowledge upgrades:
- Look for ongoing training and learning opportunities to stay engaged with your company.
- Put distractions on mute as you dive into “deep work” for 45 to 60-minute blocks of time.
- Maintain regular “official” work hours.
- Set ground rules with family and people coming into your professional space.
- Create morning and end-of-day routines.
Aesthetic and mood upgrades:
- Buy some flowers and plants to boost your mood.
- Decorate your office space.
- Create healthy visual landscapes with positive sayings or messages.
- Look your best on video calls and make your voice heard.
- Take time to socialize remotely with colleagues on a friendship basis (video or chat).
- Make sure you have plenty of “face time” with your boss.
- Be positive and don’t be too hard on yourself or others.
- Personalize your remote-work life.
As employees navigate their company’s hybrid-remote policy, upgrading your surroundings to meet your needs is important. Use these tips and set your home up for a successful work environment.
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