COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has left many of us dealing with a new, unusual challenge: working full-time from home. While the uncertain future may seem daunting, you have an opportunity to take control of your situation as you adapt to your new work routine. This can be an empowering experience. In addition to helping you be more productive; it can help support your mental well-being.

Here are five habits you can develop to help make your work-from-home experience more pleasant and productive.

Make a plan

Try to structure your day so you can be fully focused while at work and disengaged when it’s time to switch off. Start work at normal hours. Take breaks as you usually do and get a drink or a snack. Schedule lunchtime and open the windows to let in as much daylight and fresh air as possible. And be sure to log off at the right time for you.

Have a designated workspace

One of the biggest challenges is keeping your work and home lives separate. If possible, try having a designated workspace. If you are fortunate enough to have a spare room, make that your home “office.” In smaller spaces, you can try turning your chairs and tables in different directions so you are not facing your family while you work. Not enough table space? Get creative - ironing boards or other flat surfaces can be used as workstations.

The key to success is to be able to close the door on your “office” at the end of the working day. This could mean simply spreading a sheet or blanket over your workspace so you don’t focus on it during leisure time.

Prepare healthy, home-cooked meals

In our past-paced lives, we tend to rush out to buy a sandwich or a salad to eat quickly. Take advantage of working from home by preparing nutritious and tasty meals in advance. The act of preparing and serving a meal – even a simple one – can bring great comfort to you and your loved ones.

Maintain contact with others

Social interaction with colleagues doesn’t have to stop once you are working from home. In today’s world, there are a variety of ways to maintain contact outside of the office – through platforms such as Skype, WhatsApp, and Zoom. You can still stay connected and have water cooler chats, virtually!

Don’t forget to exercise¹

Exercise is good for both the body and mind. It is important to make sure you are still getting exercise during the day.

At lunchtime, instead of turning on the TV or playing video games, try taking walk outside. Even a small bit of exercise is a great way to break up your day.

Questions about how to remain healthy at home?

Visit your local health department’s website, the Cigna Website, the Cigna Envoy App², the Cigna Wellbeing^TM App² – or go to trusted sites such as the World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.