Still Working From Home? Here’s How technology Can Make Your Life Easier
Before the pandemic only about 14% of people were working from home, according to the National Bureau of Labor Statistics. That number quickly rose to more than 50% at the height of the pandemic, and even now, it is still a reality for most people. If you’re among the many still working from home, you know that some days can be more challenging than others. No matter how your workday looks, technology can make it much easier to manage.
Schedule everything ahead of time
One of the benefits of adding smart devices to your home is the ability to automate. Think of your devices as an assistant, or team member around the house, who can help you get things done. But first, you have to tell them what to do. Everyday appliances like your blinds, lights, coffee maker, even the vacuum cleaner can be set on a schedule if they are enabled with smart technology. So, instead of taking a break to make the afternoon coffee you like to drink, schedule your coffee maker to do it for you so you can get to a stopping point with work. Have a hard time waking up in the morning? Schedule your blinds to open to natural light so that you can ease into your morning routine. Sunlight is known to boost your mood and help you to be more productive throughout the day.
Set boundaries with work and life
If you are working in a position where you can fully unplug after the workday, be sure to honor that time. This helps establish boundaries for home life and could even help with productivity at work. When it’s time to unplug, schedule your phone to go on do not disturb, so that you aren’t pulled back in to email notifications. If you do have to be available for your team after hours, being engaged and plugged-in during work hours might minimize their need to reach out after hours. So, no matter if you are at work or in home mode, be sure to be fully present so that you make the most out of the time.
Pro tip: try going outside for a walk or opening the blinds to let natural light in to boost your mood on a long day.
Go wireless when possible
Convenient wireless accessories like Airpods and lightning fast chargers definitely help when it comes to being prepared for the work day. Being plugged in without literally being plugged in to chargers gives the flexibility to move around the house and change your scenery if the environment permits. Try working from a different room if you need to switch it up, or going out to the patio or backyard to work if you need some fresh air. Chargers that power up your device battery faster are also a must have.
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