Here are some practical tips to maximize productivity and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Adapting to a home-working environment might take time, but with a few adjustments and a proactive approach, it can become an effective and even preferable way of working

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• Dedicated Workspace: Designate a specific area in your home for work. This helps mentally separate "work mode" from "home mode." Ideally, this should be a quiet space free from distractions, but use what you can. Not everyone has the benefit of an extra room or office.

• Establish a Routine: This is key to a work/life balance. Try to start and finish work at the same time every day. Incorporate habits you had when working outside the home, like dressing up or having a morning coffee, to signal the start of your workday. Beware of a 7 day work week unless you really want to.

• Take Regular Breaks: Use the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Additionally, stand up, stretch, or take a short walk every hour. Scrolling through social media videos is not recommended as it can actually ramp up your stress. 

• Stay Connected: Regularly check in with colleagues through virtual meetings, calls, or chats. This combats feelings of isolation and keeps you connected to the team's goals.

• Limit Distractions: Let family members or housemates know when you're working and need focus. Especially for important meetings and/or deadlines.

• Prioritize Tasks: Start your day with a clear to-do list. Tackle high-priority tasks first or consider the "two-minute rule": if something takes less than two minutes, do it immediately.

• Set Boundaries: Just because you're working from home doesn't mean you're available 24/7. Communicate your working hours to your colleagues and superiors and stick to them.

• Stay Active: Incorporate physical activity into your routine. Whether it's a home workout, yoga, or just stretching, it's crucial for both your physical and mental well-being.

• Network Virtually: Engage in online seminars, workshops, or virtual coffee chats to maintain and grow your professional network.

• Invest in Ergonomics: A comfortable chair, a spacious desk, proper lighting, and a good monitor setup can make a significant difference in productivity and well-being. This is my favorite, not sure I can live without it now (LOL) 

• Avoid Multitasking: While it might be tempting to throw in a load of laundry or start dinner while on a conference call, it's usually more effective to focus on one task at a time.

• Set Goals and Review Them: Regularly review and adjust your goals. Celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small.