Like most people in 2020, I found myself amid a global pandemic causing me to work from home for an extended period. A few weeks into working from home, I developed a sharp pain in my lower back. It turns out my stylish mid-century modern office chair is not suitable for extended sitting. Lunchtime was also a problem. In between meetings and “heads down” work, I didn’t have time to prepare a proper lunch. Hotdogs and chips saved me more times than is appropriate for an adult. I had more issues but you get the picture. I needed to take control of the situation, which I did by employing these 7 healthy work from home habits. Think about using them for yourself if you’re in a similar situation.
[BTW… I created a simple habit tracker template to get you started with tracking these seven healthy work from home habits. If you’re serious about changing how you work from home click here to give it a try.]
1. Set work hours (and stick to it)
When you’re working from home, you can start and end work at any time. Don’t do that. It can lead to you overwork and burn out. Set work hours to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
2. Do an ergo check
Sitting or standing posture is important because you are in the same position for hours at a time day in and day out. When you start your work day make sure your posture is ergonomic.
3. Take a lunch break
Breaks are important throughout the day. A natural break is when you get hungry. Don’t try to “power through” the feeling. Stop and get something to eat.
4. Put on your “work clothes”
Although you can work in your PJs, don’t. Changing to your work clothes will change your frame of mind to work mode. You’ll feel better about yourself too.
5. Do a morning “commute”
Since you don’t have to commute, there isn’t a transition period where you can focus your mind on the tasks you need to accomplish for the day. A simple 5 min workout or a walk around the block can serve as that transition period before you go to the “office.”
6. Do an evening “commute”
Same idea as your morning commute but in the evening after you’re done for the day.
7. Work in a specific workspace
Set up a workspace in your home and do all your office work there. This will also help you transition into and out of work mode. Don’t let this space be your bed.
Bonus ideas
- Do morning stretches
- Prepare a healthy snack
- Drink at least 3 glasses of water
Use a simple tool to track your habits
I created a simple habit tracker template to get you started with tracking these seven healthy work from home habits. If you’re serious about changing how you work from home give it a try.