There has been a lot of focus lately on habits, both how we learn them and break them. It’s often said that habits are formed in 21 days. Phillipa Lally, a health psychology researcher at the University of London, found that on average, it takes more than 2 months — 66 days to be exact — for a new behavior to become automatic. By my count, June 12 will mark my 66th day working from home. I am forming and will have formed new habits by then. Going back to work, I may have to break some of those habits. And it may take another 2 months to get into a new groove. While I’ve been working from home, I’ve followed some very helpful guidelines that no matter if I’m in my home office or my agency, these habits will serve me well. I hope you too will find them helpful!
Seven Work From Home Habits for Greater Productivity (see full article attached)
I’m purposefully going to withhold giving definitions of these seven habits. I know what they look like for me. What does each one of these look like for you? I’d love to share your submissions next week as what’s working for people. Thank you in advance for sharing with me!
- Routine rules all
- Take breaks often and well
- Arrange an office space
- Dress for the job
- Connect consistently
- Tackle your to-dos
- Start, stop, and reset
Vital Smarts did a study on human behavior. Some behaviors matter more than others. If you’re really an over achiever or maximizer, try to add these to your day.
- Get outside – It is the best way to rejuvenate yourself and improve your productivity. I’ve made it a fun activity with my daughter. She makes a list of all the things we’re going to look for and we get out and do our scavenger hunt each day we can. I always feel better when I get back.
- Stretch – This relieves sore backs, necks and legs. I got a Fitbit Inspire HR for Mother’s Day. I love it because it gives my wrist a little buzz every hour which reminds me to get up and stretch or move. Just standing up and reaching for the sky and then sitting on the floor and stretching out my legs helps wake up my body.
- Manage Stress – The #1 way to reduce your stress is to avoid watching the news. I haven’t watched the news in months. I stay updated with sources I trust including our state website. That’s enough for me. I also make it a point to get exercise first thing in the morning. Anyone up for a Kettlebell challenge?! Other helpful tools include practicing mindfulness and meditation.
One final word. Don’t worry if you’re just now starting to form good working routines and habits. According to Dr. Lally’s research,, some were able to establish new habits as early as 18 days. You have time.
Here’s to new productive behaviors and routines!
Lisa
Employee Engagement 