At Braintrust, we’re all about building and maintaining connections. But what if you work from home? After all, post-pandemic numbers show up to 17.9% of the American workforce works from the comfort of their own home. Working remotely has become a staple in my life, and I’ve found a multitude of ways to eliminate that “work from home feeling” of isolation. Staying connected to the outside world is crucial for mental well-being and professional relationships. Here are several strategies I’ve found helpful to stay engaged and connected to the real world while working remotely.
Establish a Routine
Morning Rituals – I start my day with a routine similar to what I’d follow if I were going to an office. This includes a walk to get coffee, dressing for the workday, and a healthy breakfast. A routine mentally prepares me and helps maintain a boundary between work and personal time.
Regular Breaks – I schedule short breaks throughout the day to rest and recharge. During these times, I hop on my Peloton, take a walk, or make a snack. These breaks prevent burnout and keep me energized.
End-of-Day Routine – I’ve developed a ritual to signal the end of the workday, such as closing my laptop, changing into casual clothes, or stepping away from my designated workspace. This helps create a clear distinction between work and personal life.
Get Outside During Breaks
Spending time outdoors during breaks offers numerous benefits. Fresh air can boost mood, increase energy levels, and improve overall mental health. Natural light exposure helps regulate the body’s circadian rhythms, promoting better sleep and enhancing productivity. I make it a habit to go for short strolls during my breaks. This not only gives me a change of scenery but also helps clear my mind.
Regularly Connect with Friends
Virtual Coffee Breaks – I schedule informal virtual coffee breaks or lunch meetings with friends who also work from home. These casual catch ups help maintain relationships and make me feel more connected to my team and my friends.
Check-Ins – I regularly check in with my family and friends. A quick message or call can go a long way in maintaining personal connections. I’ve made it a habit to reach out and catch up, even if it’s just for a few minutes.
Leverage Coworking Spaces
When possible, I work from a coworking space in a neighborhood next to mine. These spaces provide a professional environment and the opportunity to meet other remote workers. The change of scenery can be refreshing and boost productivity. I love arriving and having a fresh oat milk latte while I get to work first thing in the morning.
Stay Active and Healthy
Most importantly to me, regular physical activity is essential for mental and physical health. Exercise reduces stress and improves overall well-being, making it easier to stay connected and engaged. The difference it makes in your everyday workload is astounding. If you’re unsure of where to start, I recommend hopping on a treadmill for 30 minutes and walking at a mild incline.
Healthy Eating – I pay attention to my diet and stay hydrated. Eating nutritious meals boosts my energy levels and helps me stay focused throughout the day. I find that healthy meals and regular exercise keeps my mental health at its best and keeps me looking forward to the next day of working from home.
Working from home has been a rewarding experience for me, offering a level of flexibility and comfort I value. Despite the physical distance, I’ve found effective ways to maintain connections with my colleagues in the office. Through regular check-ins, virtual coffee breaks, and participating in team-building activities, I’ve managed to stay engaged and connected. Establishing a solid routine and taking time to get outside during breaks has helped me maintain a balanced and productive work life. Overall, remote work allows me to enjoy the best of both worlds—flexibility and meaningful professional relationships.
Interested in keeping your team more connected? Visit us at braintrustgrowth.com.
