5 tips to make working from home better for you

Working from home has been a revelation for many people since the Covid-19 pandemic struck, boosting their work-life balance and bringing an end to lengthy commutes. But that doesn’t mean the experience has been entirely positive.

While it may offer new opportunities to working parents, logging on remotely can also take its toll on your physical and mental health. You might feel under pressure to work outside your normal hours. And sitting for eight hours a day in a cramped bedroom could do serious damage to your posture.

Read our five tips to make working from home a more enjoyable experience.

Set boundaries between work and home life

In normal times, the commute to your office can act as a barrier between work and home. But the switch to remote working has blurred the boundaries. For instance, 77% of employers have reported seeing ‘presenteeism’ – people working when they’re unwell – among home-based staff over the past year.

The average home worker also completed six hours a week of unpaid overtime last year. So, be clear with your employer about what your working hours are – and resist the temptation to answer emails or log on for extra tasks outside of your shift.

Create a healthy workspace

From ergonomic chairs to spacious desks, modern offices are designed to make things as comfortable as possible. Sadly, the same isn’t always true for remote workers.

For many, the experience involves an uncomfortable chair and cluttered desk in a spare bedroom, surrounded by clothes and boxes. This may have been acceptable in the early weeks of the pandemic, but it’s now at risk of damaging your health.

Invest in a good-quality chair and desk to ease the strain on your back. Then de-clutter any paperwork, mugs and hardware you don’t need, before cleaning your room and creating as much open space as possible.

Take regular breaks outside your home

Schedule regular breaks in between your work tasks and video calls to give yourself a change of scene. And don’t forget the importance of leaving your house from time to time – the fresh air and exercise are vital for your mental and physical well being.

Keep in touch with colleagues

A sense of isolation can set in once the novelty of working from home wears off. Through messaging apps or virtual meetings, do everything you can to stay connected with your colleagues. You don’t want to find yourself left behind socially when you eventually return to the office.

Don’t suffer in silence

Remember that your employer has a duty of care, which applies both in the office and at home. If you’re struggling with technology issues or feel you’d benefit from extra training, don’t be shy about letting your manager know. If you don’t speak up, they simply won’t realise the challenges you’re facing.

By resetting the boundaries and creating the right environment, working from home should quickly become a healthier and happier experience.