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Working Remotely

Working remotely

Most of you would have been working remotely for some time now. Some of you may find that you are more productive while others find that the novelty has worn off and it is becoming tough to get motivated and stay productive. Use the tips below as a checklist to ensure that you are doing all you can do to stay on top of things.

Things to DO:
Create a permanent work space with comfortable furniture. Not in your living room or your bedroom.
Work the same hours you did when you were going into the office.
Don’t start your work day in your PJs. Get up, get dressed and get to your work space.
Discover your high productivity periods. They may be different to when you were in the office.
Make a daily to-do list. Check it when you start your work day and when you end your work day. Tick off what you have done, transfer what still needs to be done and note the new tasks for the next day.
Take short breaks every 45 minutes.
Create a rewards system for yourself. There is no-one to pat you on your back but YOU.
Listen to music, if you can still focus on your work.
Check-in with co-workers at least once a day.
Offer feedback reports to your Manager weekly.
Create a new routine. Plan what your new work day looks like. Make it visual. You are not on holiday, you are just working in a different way.

Who you need to BE:


Optimistic/Positive

  • Make the decision NOW to have an optimistic mindset.
  • Watch your narrative and your language. Actively reframe your thoughts scanning for the positive.
  • Create ways to measure your progress and things you have achieved.



    • Responsible

  • You have the ability to respond to this new way of life. Stephen Covey said, “10% of life is what happens to you, 90% of life is decided by how you react.”
  • Write down what you can influence, what you have control of and put your energy and focus into those things.



    • The one who connects

  • Check in with colleagues, friends and family. We cannot do this alone. Be the one to offer encouragement and you will feel encouraged as a result.

    • What is one thing you can do TODAY to work more effectively?

    Watch this video on the Circle of influence and note ways you can influence how you work remotely in an effective way – you control this.