Attain a more focused mind when working from home with these top tips
It can be very easy to get consumed by everything that’s going on around you. The news and developments around COVID-19 have made a big impact on everyone’s daily routines, with most of us now working from home. Being able to maintain a clear mind during this time can be difficult to achieve and can make it a struggle to focus on work.
So we’ve put together some top tips to assist you in attaining a clearer, more focused mind when working remotely:
Keep your routine
Wherever possible, try and keep to whatever your normal routine looks like. Set your alarm, have a shower, get your morning coffee and a nutritious breakfast – you’ll be set up for the day ahead. While you may not want to get dressed in your usual office attire, take the time to get out of our PJs! This will help you adjust to a home office and ensure your mindset is work-ready.
It’s very easy to get overwhelmed with the different tasks that you have to do on a daily basis. Prioritise your day and write an actions lists – it can really help keep your mind motivated. This will help you stay on track and can give you a sense of achievement when you tick them off the list.
Take a break
If you’re finding it difficult to concentrate, take a break. It’s important to take regular breaks – go outside, make a hot drink, get some fresh air, read a book on your lunch break or simply get up from your workstation and have a walk around.
Sitting in the same position day in and day out and staring at the same screen can make it easy to lose focus. Regular screen breaks also prevent eye strain, so just as you would do in the office, take a break from your computer or laptop.
Taking yourself away from your workstation can clear your mind, help to re-evaluate your priorities and allow you to retain a sense of normality during your period of remote working.
To offer you a rest bite from your work, we’ll be setting up a virtual workplace choir and book club session, which you’ll easily be able to join from the comfort of your own home. Keep checking our website for more information on this.
Get some exercise
It has been proven that getting exercise can have a positive impact on your mental health. If you’re struggling to clear your mind when working from home, get out in the fresh air, if you can, and try taking a walk or jog.
If you live in the city centre there are a number of simple walking routes available to take around Wellington Place, such as the waterways route, Civic Quarter or Southbank route. It’s still important to get some fresh air, just remember to follow the Government guidelines and keep a safe distance from others.
Stretch and meditate
Stretching and meditation are age-old techniques for reducing stress and clearing your mind. Within Buddhism, meditation is practiced to reach enlightenment, and aside from the religious aspect, stretching has been scientifically proven to reduce stress.
It has become significantly more popular in recent years; this is largely due to how accessible it now is. Apps such as Calm and Headspace allow users to take part in guided meditation sessions whilst on the go.
On one of your breaks, find a clear space in your home or garden to breathe, stretch and meditate – clearing your mind and re-focusing for the rest of the day. Or join us for our FREE virtual weekly chair Yoga sessions which take place every Thursday from 12.30.
Eat the right food and stay hydrated
We have all heard the phrase ‘your body is a temple’, right? Well, it might be time to start treating it like one.
When it comes to keeping a clear mind, it’s just as important to consider what you’re putting into your body as to what your working environment is like. In order to maintain a positive mindset and therefore a clear mind, it’s important to keep your blood sugars at a steady level to avoid crashing halfway through the day.
Regularly drinking water is important, whether that’s in the office or at home. Staying hydrated can help improve concentration. Keep a jug in the fridge for a refreshing top up throughout the day.
Communication is key
Working from home can quickly become a lonely place. To help aid feelings of isolation, keep in contact with your colleagues and team wherever possible. Schedule in regular calls and set up virtual meetings where you can. Maintaining positivity and team spirit will contribute to your overall wellbeing and help to accomplish work goals.
We hope these handy tips help you adjust to working from home and to stay motivated by maintaining a clear, focused mind.
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