For those who are accustomed to working in an office community with immediate access to coworkers, supervisors, and social interaction, the thought of extended work from home can be daunting. This also includes having to create your own workspace and structure. While it is hard to replace impromptu problem-solving sessions with a coworker or quick access to the printer, you can learn to utilize technology tools to both stay connected and remain productive. Below are five tips to learn the ropes of remote work and limit the feelings of social isolation:

1. Create a dedicated workspace: Not everyone has the luxury of a home-office. If you don’t, find a space in your home that you can carve out for yourself. Set up the space with your computer and the items you need to establish a space where you feel you can focus on work and limit distractions.

2. Build a routine: If you think about your workday, there is probably a predictable routine. Perhaps you shower, make coffee, commute, greet co-workers, turn on the computer, assess the tasks at hand, and make a plan. Continue as much of this routine at home as possible to retain a sense of normalcy. Greet co-workers and check in so you can still feel like part of the team. Take breaks at the usual times and be sure to take time for activity bursts, like a quick walk or a cup of tea. Whether at home or work, we need to give our brains a break to refresh and renew. 

3. Identify your time management needs: Evaluate when and how you are most productive. Since you are at home, you may have more flexibility in the actual hours you work. If this is the case, find ways to structure your time with a schedule of when you will attend to specific tasks or projects. Set a timer if that is helpful. Identify your priorities and specific tasks, along with any particular workarounds that you may need in the home environment. An example would be using platforms like DocuSign or scanning and sending documents rather than having them signed in person. Also identify what tends to cause you distraction. The distractions may be different at home but consider what they are and how to manage them.