Guest Post: Keeping Yourself Busy and Productive During Remote Work

Today’s post is written by Bash Sarmiento.

The COVID-19 global pandemic imposed a major change in our daily lives. The constant wearing of a face mask, sanitizing your hands, and practicing social distancing became part of our behaviors that help protect public health by minimizing risks for contagion. All these directly made an impact when the matters of emotional well-being and mental health are talked about. These, we can say, are brought about by extreme isolation from not just family and friends, but also the workplace, where many made security in routine and income.

For the safety of almost all employees and to obey the government promulgations, companies and organizations welcomed the thought of work from home which later on became a work trend and gained worldwide attention and popularity at an extensive rate. A study by the Pew Research Center (2020) in the United States found out that seventy-one percent of employed adults are currently on a telework setup. Fifty-four percent expressed their want to continue working from home even when the Coronavirus outbreak ends. This work setup is really off to a great start since a survey done by Apollo Technical (2021) also revealed that working from home produces a better turnover rate for tasks and productivity. Worth noting, workers are happy too and that they experience less stress, more focus, and better work-life balance.

However, work and life at home can be a little monotonous at times. In reality, because of a global crisis, some people tend to cope with stress, anxiety, and cabin fever by seeking the help of vices as a band-aid fix — a temporary relief that later on can be a regret. Cases of stress eating, smoking, and drinking have been rising and these are all brought about by the pandemic situation. People who are often at home and doing the same routines feel as though there is no spontaneity, lack excitement and novelty. Although with a few creative tricks, you can still keep yourself busy, entertained, and productive in many ways. Here are some:

1. Call someone for chitchat.

It is important to maintain relationships, especially when remote work gets tough or dry. Having someone who listens to you feels like a warm hug. With the distance between you and your friends, still, be sociable. Humans are social creatures and small talk can certainly make anyone feel better. It can be over your phone or via a video chat with your friends. Exchange simple ways on how to overcome stress or simply open up your pandora’s box. Learning a thing or two from a friend about technical hacks how to get a job done and fast would be beneficial to you.

2. Commit to lifelong learning.

Lifelong learning is a voluntary or self-motivated educational pursuit for reasons of personal or professional achievement. It can be anything from learning a new language which can be helpful in your career for times when you have foreign clients or going one mile forward by completing a higher degree in education. This is a great way to be busy and be more productive which also helps you be directed to your roadway to success. You may also start a new hobby, or learn a new skill. The goal of lifelong learning is to continuously explore your personality and your abilities while having fun.

3. Redecorate your home office.

Let us face it, your office workspace is entirely different from your home office. The coffee as well tastes different but you can definitely personalize it according to your preferences. Research an interior design or Do-It-Yourself videos which are all over the internet for your inspiration. Just follow the basic office principles: uncluttered, ergonomically designed, well lighted, comfortable, and conducive. Check on shipping discounts and shop for a new office chair and table. The possibilities are endless.

4. Start a small business.

If you have enough time on your daily schedule, try starting your own small business. It can be retail or food as long as you see yourself having fun establishing and maintaining it. It is also a perfect way to earn extra money. With many resources found online, an idea can easily be simmering. The fun part is setting it up where you can put out your creative juices and find ways and strategies to keep the profits in. 

5. Do random acts of kindness.

With the pandemic we are going through right now, all the more that the world needs kindness. Participate in a soup kitchen, pledge to give groceries for a charity, or simply organize a free online class to teach something others might benefit from. For your friends and loved ones, maybe you can learn how to do calligraphy to write a personal letter, address an envelope, and send them a mail as your way of saying you remember them. Now is the time to make them feel appreciated and not taken for granted.

With little things that can bring a renewed sense of productivity to your remote work life, you will never have to feel like you are left behind. All it takes is an effort to come up with ways on how to make the most of your time at home while being happily occupied. Just remember, it must foster feelings of happiness and satisfaction.

About the Author:

Bash Sarmiento is a writer and an educator from Manila. He writes laconic pieces in the education, lifestyle, and health realms. His academic background and extensive experience in teaching, textbook evaluation, business management, and traveling are translated into his works.

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