Working from home full time is a new experience for many of us. Although there are some perks to this, some workers can begin to feel the impact of working in isolation, potentially decreasing morale or productivity.

We’ve compiled some of our top tips for ensuring you remain focused and productive throughout this time. 

Try to keep your usual morning routine 
You can still maintain some parts of your usual working day; wake up at your normal time, get dressed and have breakfast. It’ll put you in the right frame of mind to start the day and be productive

Change your surroundings 
After a while, you can become bored with your surroundings. Changing your environment by going out for a walk (in line with government guidelines) or switching the room you work in will combat this and give you a boost in motivation

Take regular breaks from your screen/s
Ensure you give your eyes a break from your screens to prevent strain and to help keep you on top of your workload.

Keep active
Whether you go for a run or walk to get some fresh air or complete a class at home, getting some exercise is incredibly important for your mental wellbeing and maintaining a positive outlook. There are many resources which you can access online, completely free of charge, such as live yoga or fitness classes. You could even join in with Joe Wicks’ morning P.E. class! 

Stay in touch
Arrange regular catch ups with your teams or colleagues, videocall your friends or family. Keeping in touch with others will really help if feelings of loneliness start to set in. It is normal to start feeling stressed or anxious in this unusual situation but remember that we are all in the same position and your family, friends and colleagues can help to support you.

If you start to feel overwhelmed by these circumstances, you can seek professional help using online resources. Mind lists a range of resources which you can access free of charge.

Switch off your work devices at the end of the day 
Remember that your normal working hours still apply and it is still important to have some downtime to refresh and take a break. It is easy to continue working beyond your usual hours but try switching off all of your work-related devices to stave off the temptation of carrying on.  

Plan activities during the evenings
Whether you find some old board games, practice mindfulness or catch up with a friend, planning something that you look forward to will help to  boost your motivation throughout the working day.

Take advantage of the extra time you have
Many of us now have an extra couple of hours to ourselves, which is a great opportunity to start something productive. For example, professional development courses, reading, cooking/baking, or any other form of self-care.

From all of us at SB&P, we would like to wish you all the very best during this time. If you are seeking any advice, please get in touch with your usual relationship partner.