Remote working, or working from home, has become vastly common ever since the pandemic. While this setup has saved a lot of employees’ commuting time and presented several other benefits, it has also invited some pitfalls. Working from home does offer some comfort, but there are certain mistakes that one must avoid to manage their work, time, and health effectively in that setup. Here are 5 such mistakes to avoid when working from home.

Not setting up a workspace
When working from home, it is crucial to have a dedicated workspace with a complete work setup in order to maintain productivity and discipline. One doesn’t need to transform an entire room into an office, but one can reserve a desk in a dedicated space and create a complete work setup with an ergonomic chair similar to what one would find in one’s office. It is important to avoid working from the bed or couch as it can lead to bad posture and spinal health issues such as back pain. Therefore, it is essential to invest in a good ergonomic office chair and desk when working from home. One must understand that this investment is for one’s health. Setting up a workspace creates a sense of discipline that one can maintain while working, which is crucial for staying productive.

Not managing distractions
When working from home, it is easy to get distracted by several things, such as the television, pending chores, etc. Hence, when setting up a workspace at home, it is essential to ensure that it is done in a way that one can keep oneself away from such distractions while working. If one has kids at home, one can also instruct the kids not to play near the workspace during working hours. Only by being free from distractions can one entirely focus on their work.

Not setting up a proper routine
One must also set a strict schedule when working from home to ensure discipline and productivity. A fixed routine helps one get all their tasks in order, including the home chores as well as the office work, and ensures that one maintains a boundary between the two. A routine also ensures that one maintains a proper balance between work and life.

Not taking breaks
Often, when working from home, individuals neglect taking breaks in between. Constantly sitting at the desk for hours and not taking breaks can not only reduce productivity but also have severe health implications. Plus, constantly staring at the screen without taking breaks can also prove to be bad for the eyes. It is, therefore, important to take short breaks in between. During this time, one can step away from the desk and keep oneself active with some activities such as taking a small stroll, doing a little stretching (which is also required for physical health), drinking water, etc.

Not maintaining communication
A common mistake when working from home is failing to maintain communication with fellow employees. It’s important to stay connected with co-workers to stay informed and feel like a valued part of the team, even when working remotely. Isolating oneself can lead to feeling disconnected and unproductive. Therefore, it’s crucial to make an effort to communicate regularly with colleagues.