A growing number of people are working remotely as the coronavirus continues to spread all over the world. However, many who are used to the office life may suddenly find that being stuck in the house isn't as efficient as they might've thought. If you're working from home, there are certain steps you can take to make sure that your routine stays on track and that you remain productive.

1. Plan Your Day Effectively

Individuals who are used to working the typical 9-5 grind in the office, seeing everyone hustle throughout the day, may feel far less inclined to stay busy at home. You can overcome the potential “laziness” that comes with remote work by prioritizing your daily tasks with a strict schedule and in-depth to-do lists.

Make sure you have plans for the morning, afternoon, and evening hours. Start with a specific time that you want to get up and start the day. Also, schedule lunch or general break times, and a time to go off the clock. Try not to let any of your regular working hours go wasted. While you should give yourself ample time to relax, schedule it accordingly to avoid decreased productivity.

When it comes to creating to-do lists, start with the hardest tasks of the day. Try your best not to diverge at any point. This can help you develop a routine that you can become comfortable following on a daily basis. In the process, you'll be able to efficiently complete everything that needs to get done by the end of the day, whether for work or your personal life.

2. Dress Like You Are at Work

One way to keep from getting too lackadaisical when working remotely is to dress like you're still going into the office. If you normally wear business-casual attire or a three-piece suit to work, continue to do so, and you'll imbue a more professional atmosphere in your home office.

3. Have a Designated Workspace

It's important to create your own office at home, whether it's in a room that's specifically designed for this or an area that you can convert into a regular office space. Refer to this as your office or workspace every day, even if it doesn’t entirely look like one. Also, it helps to install a desk or clean off counter space to keep all your work items together, such as your laptop/computer, paperwork, planner, etc. With some modifications, you can set up shop just about anywhere.

4. Establish Boundaries in the Home

If you're living with a roommate, spouse, or children, make sure there are boundaries in place to keep them from interfering with your schedule during work hours. Specify certain times when you should be left alone and undisturbed, and your roommates or loved ones should honor them.

5. Maintain Normal Work Hours

It can be easy to lose the habit of maintaining regular work hours when you're no longer required to commute to the office. However, one of the keys to remaining consistently productive throughout the day is to adhere to a set schedule. Stick to your normal work hours, such as 9 to 5, or beginning even earlier. Try to align your work schedule with those of your colleagues, superiors, and/or clientele, which can help everyone stay on track.

Tips for Combating the Coronavirus While Out or at Home

In addition to working efficiently at home, you can work to help beat the coronavirus in your community by taking some of the following steps, whether at home or out for the day:

• Be careful where you are getting your news source - Avoid any false warnings or otherwise questionable news by following the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), and sources that only refer to their updates.
• Wash your hands - Try to wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water. If soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your face - If you haven't washed your hands, touching your face or mouth can transfer the virus to these areas and potentially make you sick.
• Maintain distance - Avoid close contact with people who are ill. If you're around someone that's coughing or sneezing, the CDC recommends you try to stay at least 3 to 6 feet away.
• Don't share personal items - Sharing items such as eating utensils and drinking glasses can spread the virus.
• Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze - Try to cough or sneeze into the crook of your elbow or a tissue. Be sure to promptly dispose of any used tissues after.
• Stay home if you're sick - If you're already ill, plan to stay at home until you recover.
• Clean surfaces - Use household cleaning sprays or wipes to clean high-touch surfaces such as doorknobs, keyboards, and countertops.

If you can take the following tips when working at home in the event the coronavirus affects your community, you will be able to remain productive and maintain a healthy work-life balance. If you would like to ask any questions or view available opportunities with Lutz Talent, contact us today.