When COVID took the world by storm, working from home became the new norm.
Most workplaces returned to the hustle and bustle of office life, but a day or two (or maybe every day) of working from home is how our work week now looks.
There's something luxurious about skipping the chaotic morning commute and heading to our improvised home office instead, whether it's the living room, the kitchen - or even your bed (not recommended)!
But being productive and achieving a work-life balance in the same space where we unwind can sometimes feel like a bit of a challenge.
We've rounded up some simple and practical tips to help you make the most out of your WFH days. Give our suggestions a try and see how they fit.
Did you know that designating a specific space for work can boost your focus and productivity? When we choose a separate spot for our work activities, our mind gets a clear signal that it's time to get down to business.
Try a spot that's quiet and free from usual household disturbances. The goal is to create an environment that enhances your focus and reduces procrastination. This could be an unused corner of your bedroom, a section of your living room, or an entire room (if you have space). Avoid places like your bed or the couch, where your brain associates it with rest.
Next, bring in the office essentials: a comfy chair, table at the right height, good lighting and your laptop. Try to mimic an office setting as it sets up the vibe and nudges your brain into 'work mode'.
Remember, this is your personal workspace. Add little touches that make you happy - maybe a plant, inspiring quotes or your favourite coffee mug. It's about creating a space where you feel motivated and ready to power through your work day.
Working from home involves numerous online tasks from video conferencing, dealing with work-related sensitive data to transferring large files. An unreliable connection can disrupt your workflow.
This is why a fast and secure home network is crucial when you work from home.
Our range of reliable, yet flexible internet plans cater to your specific usage and budget. They also follow industry-leading cyber security measures to help keep you safe online and protect your personal information when you're working from home.
Discover Telstra's internet plans
Depending on the build and structure of your house, it can be difficult to connect devices in rooms that are far away from the modem. This typically occurs in larger, double-brick or multiple-storied houses.
If this is an issue you commonly face at home, consider adding on a Telstra Smart Wi-Fi Booster.
They can be added to an existing Telstra internet plan, and are designed to enhance your connectivity by extending Wi-Fi reach through walls and around corners - ensuring strong Wi-Fi signals throughout your home.
While you're working from home, it's tempting to work past traditional office hours.
However, the truth is that non-stop working without sufficient breaks reduces productivity. Regular pauses play a significant role in recharging our energy and maintaining our focus.
Try the Pomodoro technique, a time management method created by a French university student in the 1980s:
The Pomodoro technique is pretty easy to follow and the best part is its flexibility. Some people prefer longer blocks of working time. For example, 50 minutes, with 10 minute breaks in between.
Give different working times a go and use the one that works best for you.
It's crucial not to neglect the health of your eyes. Staring at screens for extended periods of time can often lead to eye strain, dryness and fatigue.
Here's where the 20-20-20 rule comes in handy. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 6 metres away. This short break allows your eyes to rest, reducing the risk of digital eye strain.
Consider adjusting your screen brightness and contrast to more comfortable levels, too. Your screen should resemble the lighting of your surroundings - not too dim and not too bright. Also, keep your screen at a distance where you can comfortably read text without leaning or squinting.
When it comes to breaks, try choosing an option that doesn't involve another screen (no social scrolling!). The best part about working from home is having more options during your breaks.
Maybe walk around the block, play with your pets, read a physical book, or whip up a quick snack.
Once the workday wraps up, take some time to relax, unwind and recharge for the next day. Luckily, working from home means we're one step closer to the leisure activities we enjoy.
Want to soak up on some drama, laughter or action? Telstra's streaming entertainment offerings should be your go-to. With BINGE, Foxtel, Kayo, and numerous movies, you can stream international and local content from the comfort of your living room. Be it catching up on your favourite TV series, watching a much-awaited sports event, or exploring new shows, there's something to entertain everyone at home.
Or maybe gaming is more your way of relaxing after work.
Why not escape into an entirely different world with an Xbox Game Pass? Immerse yourself in a library of over 100 high-quality games, and join other gamers on the couch or across the world with the most advanced online multiplayer network. Lose yourself in an adventure or challenge your brain with a strategy game.
