The average full-time American employee spends one third of their day working, five days a week, according to the CDC. That means your coworkers, your daily tasks, and the work culture you surround yourself with can be just as important as the relationship, activity, and environmental decisions you make with the other two thirds of your life.
So how do we create work that feels "right for me" when we are working remotely? The key is to develop relationships, tasks, and an environment that suits your values. In a traditional office-based job, those factors are laid out for you already. With remote work, the flexibility is much greater — but it takes responsibility and self-discipline to create the situation that will most support you and your work. Here are five tips for shaping your remote job to be your best, and happiest, work self.
1. Tune Into Your Surroundings
Do you work better with some noise in the background, or in complete silence? Especially in cities, it is difficult to find the kind of space you need when you need it. Consider noise-cancelling headphones, nature music, or renting a small office space to give you more control and regularity over your surroundings.
2. Don't Multitask
It's a common misconception that multitasking equals higher productivity. In fact, humans are not able to do several things at once — rather, we waste time shifting rapidly between tasks, never engaging on a deeper level with any one task. Practice focusing on one thing at a time, even if it feels slow at first. Training your attention will actually boost engagement, allowing you to complete tasks more quickly and effectively.
3. Take a Full Lunch
Sure, you might be on deadline with a conference call at 2pm, but studies show that taking breaks throughout the day allows for reflection, which in turn can lead to greater clarity and creativity when returning to work. Without breaks, you may suffer exhaustion — which will show in your work.
4. Touch Base
While working remotely has its benefits, it's important for our mental hygiene to engage in regular collaboration with co-workers. Schedule time here and there for in-person meetings: human contact is conducive to better communication when presenting new ideas, as we pick up on emotional responses and cues better face-to-face.
5. Consider Your Ideal Situation
Not all remote workers are people who enjoy working by themselves. If you prefer a busy environment, consider a shared office space for professionals in your field, where you can develop social relationships during coffee breaks and lunch. Knowing your personality can go a long way.
While many people consider their work "just jobs," tailoring your remote working situation to suit your needs can do a lot for your mental hygiene, which in turn can improve performance and strengthen work relationships.
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