Working from home and working remotely as a software developer can be an adjustment for even the most independent person. If you're used to a commute and then going to a physical office, starting a new rhythm can be tough to start.
Successful remote working, when you feel motivated and empowered, is mainly within your mindset, with a few minor tricks you can implement to make the whole experience smoother. They include respecting your space, your time, and taking care of yourself.
1. Dedicate a Space Specifically for Work
Even if your workspace changes every day, having a dedicated space for work can put you in the zone. It's always tempting to work from bed, but working where you sleep is not a good idea. You're better off setting up your workspace in an ergonomically friendly place.
Take your workspace seriously and don't watch Netflix, mindlessly scroll on your phone, or eat at your desk. Those are the perfect opportunities to take a break, stretch your legs, or grab another cup of coffee before you get back to your next task.
When you set up your space to your tastes, it becomes a motivating place to work.
2. Keep a Schedule
When you're working from home or remotely, you're not following the same pattern as office-dwellers. Their workday is a little more structured because they only work while they're in the office. However, when working remotely, it's easy to let work expand to more than full-time.
Wake up at the same time every day, keep the same routines, and set boundaries with yourself. Work-life balance is essential, so it's important to know when to shut off the computer and step away from work. Put the fun things, like hobbies and side projects, into your schedule to make a commitment to yourself to enjoy your free time.
When you keep a schedule, you can beat overwhelming stress. You'll have planned out the work you need to do and can feel empowered and in control.
3. Talk to Other People
Working remotely can be really isolating. You don't have access to your peers and colleagues the way you would in a traditional office setting, so it's necessary to make time to connect with others.
Talking to people in real life gives you a feeling of connection. Even if you don't have time or energy for a social visit, just checking in with a friend can help fill your social meter. If you're also on a remote island while working remotely, talking virtually is a good option.
Whether you want to have a casual conversation with a friend or talk to other remote software developers to share experiences, social connection is important in any form.
4. Take Breaks
It's easy to lose track of time while you're working remotely. There are no colleagues to urge you to take breaks with them, so it's up to you to remember to take breaks and recharge.
Take short breaks every couple of hours and use the time to grab a snack, stretch, or spend some time with your pet.
If you're lucky enough to be working outside, just take some time off your computer to enjoy it. If you're inside, taking a short walk outside can give you some fresh air and sunlight to beat the afternoon slump. It's the perfect motivation to carry you through the rest of the day.
5. Reward Yourself
Working remotely or from home can be distracting. Things are always chaotic around you, and there may be things going on that may pull you out of work mode. A trick to keep yourself motivated is to implement a reward system.
Make a little pact with yourself that if you finish your work on time and get the critical things done, you get a Netflix episode as a reward. If you prefer multiple mini-rewards throughout the day, tell yourself that you can have your favorite treat if you finish your project.
Turn distractions into motivation to complete your work faster and more productively. If you're looking forward to something at the end, it will motivate you to keep going.
Final Thoughts
Working remotely feels radically different than working in an office. There is a different environment, people, and there's unspoken accountability. When you're working remotely, you're likely only accountable to yourself. As long as your work gets finished, how you get there only affects you.
So, it's important to get healthy work habits to make you feel empowered and keep up your motivation, so you don't get burnt out. It can be just as difficult as being in an office, just tricky in different ways. Working remotely is an incredible opportunity, and it's up to you to make it what you want.
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