Healthy Habits for Remote Work

2. Ergonomic Workstation

Creating an ergonomic workstation when working remotely is crucial for maintaining physical health, productivity, and overall well-being. An ergonomic setup minimises the risk of repetitive strain injuries, back pain, and discomfort associated with prolonged sitting. Proper ergonomics promote good posture, reducing the strain on muscles and joints and preventing long-term musculoskeletal issues. An ergonomic workstation also enhances productivity by reducing fatigue and increasing comfort, allowing for longer periods of focused work.

Moreover, prioritising ergonomics demonstrates a commitment to employee health and safety, fostering morale and job satisfaction. Overall, investing in an ergonomic workstation when working remotely is essential for promoting health, productivity, and overall workplace satisfaction.

3. Social Interaction

Everyone that has worked in an office knows it can be disruptive having people constantly stopping at your desk and chatting or saying hello. Humans are tribal animals, and these interactions at lunch or around the proverbial water cooler are very important for our emotional health.

The importance of social interaction when working remotely cannot be overstated. Social interaction fosters a sense of belonging, camaraderie, and connection among remote team members. It helps combat feelings of isolation and loneliness, promoting mental well-being and reducing the risk of burnout.

Regular social interactions also facilitate communication, collaboration, and teamwork, enhancing productivity and creativity. Furthermore, social interaction also allows for the exchange of ideas, knowledge sharing, and professional development opportunities, contributing to individual growth and team cohesion. Incorporating social interaction into remote work environments helps build a supportive and inclusive culture, leading to happier and more engaged employees. 

4. Exercise and Movement

One of the biggest losses when working remotely relates to our exercise routine. When working from an office you are, at the very least, moving to get to and from work and navigating the office space with colleagues. At home it’s very easy to move from the bedroom to the office and back again with limited movement throughout the day, apart from getting something to eat from the kitchen.

Employees working from home should be sure to plan regular breaks that include some form of movement and exercise. This can be as simple as going for a walk around the block, doing some meditation/mindfulness in the backyard or completing some simple stretches or yoga. As much as possible these activities should incorporate time outside, to get some much-needed sunlight and Vitamin D.