When I first saw the acronym WFM in a trade journal, my eyes initially saw a different set of letters. I was astonished this magazine would even consider publishing such as acronym. Are you smiling or just sneering at this post? However, a second look revealed with more clarity the correct letters, and I subsequently learned to my relief what those initials meant – Working from Home.
The pandemic created an overnight demand for working from home. Suddenly everyone, students, teachers, administrators, employees, and their managers needed to learn on the fly how to accomplish the same tasks performed at work from home. And to maintain the same amount of productivity. A tall order while keeping everyone safe and the COVID-19 virus at bay.We all thought this WFH phenomenon would be temporary. Yet, here we are almost a year later, and even though the vaccines are being distributed and the cases of the virus are tracking downward, we may be entering a new normal that still includes, to some degree, working from home.At Bella Domicile, working from home was already in place for some designers before the pandemic's arrival. Others on the team needed to adjust reasonably quickly by setting up makeshift office space and transporting equipment and supplies from their offices to their homes.We learned a few lessons along the way; not everyone is wired to work from home, and not every task can be accomplished away from the office. It requires proper planning and execution to do it properly. And, the more hats a person wears, the harder it is to separate all functions, roles, and responsibilities when working from home.A successful working from home environment requires a certain amount of discipline, planning, and dedication to making it work.Tips for Working from Home
- Dedicate the Space: A home office situated in the crossroads and crosshairs of family activities is a recipe for disaster. Designate a quiet space for setting up a distraction-free zone. A spare bedroom, large closet, lower level alcove, or little-used dining rooms are potential candidates for establishing a home office.
- Use Airplane Mode: Limit distractions by placing all your devices in airplane mode. And resist turning them on when working on a task. Sneak a peek at emails or text messages during breaks or after eating a meal.
- Two is Better than One: Three is even better. If you have space, position at least two monitors on your work desk. Studies have proven that efficiencies are gained when working off multiple monitors. If your primary device is a laptop, larger monitors provide an easier-to-see screen to maneuver.
- Adopt the Pomodoro Technique: The Pomodoro Technique is a time management tool that breaks down tasks into manageable intervals with breaks built into each segment. Its simple interface achieves results by reducing distractions, increasing output, and getting things done quickly.
The pandemic created an opportunity for new skills learned or honing existing skills. The WFH phenomenon is likely to stay. The key for many is adjusting and embracing the concept while positioning the space for maximum productivity and success.
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