Struggling to Work from Home? How to Set Boundaries + Other Tips

You have been working from home for almost the whole of 2020 and 2022 now.

If you’re happy in your own space, you have probably been secretly enjoying working by yourself.

But if you are more social, you are probably struggling.

Your home life and work set-up play a huge part in your WFH experience.

A lot of businesses have spoken of their intent to keep people working from home for a loooong time.

This means it’s time to set up your homework station properly if you haven’t yet.

That is if you want to be productive, of course.

These 7 simple yet powerful tips below will help you get started:

1. Get the right work equipment from your employer

Your employer is legally obliged to supply you with everything you need to get the work done. This may be a laptop, a computer, a second screen, a desk riser, a mouse, a keyboard – anything you need.

NB! You shouldn’t have to use your personal laptop for work reasons!

Your laptop screen should be set to your eye line level. This way you’ll avoid headaches and other nasty side effects.

This sustainable birch plywood standing desk is one of the eco-friendly choices you can make in your home office. Its minimal design complements any home.

You may also need special screen or reading glasses. You can visit this website for more information about glasses. Eye health is often something that employers contribute towards, so ask if they can cover or partly cover the costs of the glasses.

NB! Ask your employer how can they reimburse you for these equipment costs.

2. Have a dedicated working space away from your bedroom

Working from home is hard because you do everything else there, too.

You need to establish good habits and stick to them.

Ideally, you’d have a dedicated working space that is separate from where you relax.

Working in your bedroom is a big NO, because your bedroom will become associated with being alert, awake, and switched on.

If you can, find a quiet space away from other people and distractions.

3. Fresh flowers can boost productivity

The things you surround yourself with while working can help to keep you focused and productive.

As you start to iron out the details of your home office design, you need to make sure natural elements are included. Multiple studies have been conducted that show a correlation between fresh flowers in a home office and higher productivity levels.

With the help of a flower shop near you, finding the right natural elements to put into your home office will be much easier. If you want flowers/plants that can improve productivity levels, you need to look for options like:

•       Peace lilies
•       Orchids
•       African violets
•       Snake plants
•       Rubber tree plants
•       Tillandsia

Not only can the addition of these plants help with productivity, it can also help to purify the air in your home office. Getting a great deal on fresh flowers is only possible with some research. By checking out the online reviews of florists in your area, you should have no problem finding the right establishment to help you out.

4. An ergonomic desk chair is crucial

If you are uncomfortable while working, you won’t be able to focus.

If the job you perform at home keeps you on the computer for multiple hours each day, you need a quality desk and chair to use.

Some people think that any type of chair will work for a home office setup. In reality, you will need to do some homework to find the most comfortable and ergonomically designed chair on the market.

Prolonged sitting sessions in an uncomfortable chair can also be hazardous for your spine. Ideally, you want to go into an office furniture supplier’s storefront and sit in a few different chairs before choosing one.

By doing this, you can get a firsthand feel for which chair best meets your needs. Once you figure out the desk chair model and brand you need, you can start the hunt for the best price online 😏

In some cases, you can get a much better deal on a desk chair by working with an online supplier.

5. Set boundaries in your household

Setting boundaries with other members of your household is key to your productivity.

It can be challenging to set firm boundaries between ‘work time’ and ‘home time’ when you are always home. Small children may think that you are home because you aren’t working and want to spend time with you.

Discuss your needs with your family. Remind them that you still have work to do and need quiet time to do it.

6. Make sure the Internet connection is stable

 Slow internet is the worst productivity killer.

If your current internet connection has been slow, you can call your provider and ask if they can help you. They can either install a new router, a WIFI booster, get you a discount on your contract or if nothing works – you can decide to just switch providers altogether.

Often, the connection is weak because your router is simply too far from your laptop. To fix this problem, consider buying an ethernet cable and use a plugged connection.

7. Break up your day with a walk or exercise

Break up the workday with movement. Working from home means you might be spending a lot more time without moving your body, which can make you feel stiff or tense.

This can be a quick burst of movement (like jumping jacks, or lifting kettlebells) or some lower impact movement like a walk.

If possible, set a time to go for a walk, run, or bike ride for some fresh air – just make sure to stay at least 2-metres apart from others, in line with social distancing guidance.