Mastering Productivity and Mental Wellbeing Whilst Working from Home

By Rachel Butler , Senior Recruiter

I have been working from home for nearly two years now, and it definitely has its positives. Yet, after working in an office for my whole career, a change like this can be challenging too and can have a big impact on mental health. I learnt pretty quickly how important it is to get into a routine and set some clear boundaries. 

In June 2022, I was fortunate enough to secure my first remote role with PeopleScout EMEA as a Senior Recruiter with the Specialist Projects Team, which meant changes had to made to support my career and my family.  We converted the shed into a home office to create a place where I could escape (not always successfully, when my bulldozers come crashing through the door after school) and to focus, but also a space where I could lock the door and step away from ‘the office’; where I could switch off at the end of the day and revert to being Mum.

In this article, I share some simple tips which help me to feel more productive, motivated and look after my mental health whilst I work from home.

Set boundaries

Setting boundaries with other members of your household is key to mental wellbeing whilst working at home.  You can be more flexible when working from home, so enjoy it. But it can also be difficult if there are other distractions to deal with.

Discuss your needs, especially with your family. Remind them that you have work to do and need quiet time to do it. Similarly, set boundaries with work. It's easier to stay logged on when your home is your office but try to switch off when the working day is over and enjoy time with family or friends.

Create a routine

Without a steady schedule, the line between work and personal time can get blurred and it can be stressful if the balance isn't right.  Follow your normal sleep and work patterns if you can and stay consistent.

Get up at the same time, eat breakfast and get dressed as you would if you were heading into the office (I may still wear a smart top with a pair of tracksuit bottoms). Try using your "commute time" and spend it exercising, reading, or listening to music before logging in and starting work. I go for a walk for at least an hour, which sets me up nicely for the day, especially at this time of year.

Prioritise challenging tasks

If you can’t decide which projects or tasks to complete, consider doing the most difficult ones first to reduce the potential for feeling overwhelmed later in the day.

Make use of technology

If you want a little extra boost when it comes to time tracking and organisation, consider using time management apps.

Most importantly, when your workday ends, stop working. Shut down your computer, stop checking emails and focus on your home life. This is essential to get the balance right from the outset. 

Make space

If you can, find a quiet space away from people and distractions. Get everything you need in one place before you start work – chargers, pens, paper and any other equipment – and shut the door if you can. Even in a small or shared space, try to designate an area for work.

It might be tempting to sit on the sofa, but it's much better to sit or stand at a desk or table.

Take a break

Try to take regular screen breaks and give yourself time to concentrate on something else so that you feel more focused when you return. Give yourself short breaks of 5 to 10 minutes each hour to really help your productivity.  I use my FitBit to give me a nudge every hour, even if it’s just to stand up and have a stretch.  If you’re anything like me, my posture is terrible, and I find this helps me to be mindful of that.

If possible, spend time outdoors when you can. Regular time in green space is great for your mental health. Go for a walk, run or bike ride for some fresh air.

Keep in touch

Whilst working from home has its benefits, you may also feel more isolated. But there are lots of ways to stay in touch with those who matter – boosting their mental wellbeing as well as your own.

In and out of work, human interaction matters so schedule video calls and pick up the phone instead of emailing. If you're struggling with working at home, speak to your colleagues or manager about your concerns.

And remember, your colleagues probably feel the same as you. Ask how they're doing and whether there are ways you can support each other; you may even pick up some new ideas from each other which will help you at home.

Be kind to yourself

To keep motivated, break down tasks into smaller, more manageable steps, and reward yourself for completing them. Rewards could include:

•             Taking a break.

•             Reciting positive affirmation to yourself, make a note of your successes. This is great to come back to at a later stage, if you’re having a tough day.

•             Physically ticking the tasks off from your to-do list.

•             Giving yourself a few minutes to check in with friends.

•             Taking a few moments to stretch or engage in a relaxation exercise.

Enjoy! Please remember protecting your mental health is a necessity, not a luxury!