Remote Work Hacks for Productivity and Connection

The allure of remote work—flexible hours, ditching the commute, yoga pants all day—is undeniable. But let's be honest: Staying productive and feeling connected can be challenging when your teammates are all a video call away, and your fridge is a constant siren song. You can do things to make this way of working work well for you. Here are some hacks to help keep you focused, fulfilled, and feeling like part of the team, even when your office is a corner of your living room. 

Craft Your Work Sanctuary:

One thing you can do is establish a dedicated workspace. This doesn't need to be a whole room, but having a designated area for work signals to your brain (and body) that it's time to focus. Invest in a comfortable chair and good lighting—ergonomics and lighting matter. 

Embrace the Power of Routine:

Set regular work hours and stick to them as much as possible. Time blocking on my calendar helps to keep me on track. Yeah, I put lunchtime in there, too. It's wild how easy it can be to forget to eat. You must establish a healthy work-life balance and avoid the dreaded "always-on" feeling. Schedule breaks throughout the day, and get up and move around! A mid-day dog walk or a round around the block is an excellent way to get some sunshine and get out of a mental funk. Resist the urge to answer emails outside your work hours unless absolutely urgent. 

Tame the Tech Tigers:

In this day and age, there are just no excuses for not staying organized. You can use project management tools and to-do lists to stay organized and avoid getting overwhelmed. There are countless apps and software solutions—find what works for you. Silence notifications on your phone and consider using website blockers to minimize distractions.

Communication is Key:

Just because you're remote doesn't mean you have to go radio silent. I would say that proactive communication is essential. Schedule regular check-ins with your manager and colleagues, even if it's just a quick video call to say hi and talk about ongoing projects. Make the most of face time (digital as it maybe) to feel productive. 

Embrace the Virtual Connections:

Many communication platforms offer features beyond video conferencing. Utilize virtual channels for casual chats and team bonding. Organize virtual coffee breaks, after-work connects (sans the commute!), or fun online games.

Step Away from the Screen:

Remote work can blur the lines between work and personal life. Schedule time for activities that have nothing to do with work – exercise, hobbies, social interaction. Helping you to recharge and avoid burnout.

Remember, You're Not Alone:

Feeling isolated is a common challenge for remote workers. There are online communities dedicated to remote work, which are a great way to connect with others who understand the joys and challenges of working from afar.

Consider implementing some of these tips. Remember, it's all about finding what works for you. So, experiment and find your groove.