28 May 2020
Whilst we continue to adjust to working from home, we came up with some tips to help you make the most of your time.
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Set up a study space
Create a dedicated study space with good natural lighting, removed from noise and distractions. This will help you enter a positive headspace for high performance.
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Clean desk policy
A desk that’s cluttered with books, papers and biscuit crumbs can increase your stress levels and distract you from the task at hand. Clearing the mess before you commence work creates mental clarity as well as physical cleanliness.
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Choose a comfortable chair
Sitting on an uncomfortable chair for prolonged periods can cause poor posture and associated health conditions. Choose a chair that provides appropriate support.
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Rest your eyes
Staring at a computer screen all day can lead to eye strain, the symptoms of which include headaches and blurred vision. To minimise the risk and rest your eyes, make sure to take short breaks away from your screen.
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Take breaks
Aim to have a few minutes away from your desk every hour in order to stretch your muscles and take a little walk – according to Psychology Today, taking regular breaks improves performance and boosts energy.
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Control your environment
Unlike classrooms and offices, you have complete control over your working conditions at home. So act on this opportunity by ensuring the temperature, light and environment support your individual needs.
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Snacks and drinks
It’s easy to become so consumed by your studies that you forget about nutritious food and drink. So make sure you’ve stocked up on healthy choices such as fruit, nuts and water, which maintain energy levels and boost your brainpower.
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Optimise study time
Everyone’s performance peaks at slightly different times of the day and flexible learning allows you to optimise your learning time. So figure out when your peak concentration hits and design a study programme that works around this.
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Get enough sleep
When you’re balancing a busy work schedule with a home and social life, sleep deprivation can creep in. The National Sleep Foundation recommends that adults aged between 16-64 get between 7-9 hours’ sleep per day — be sure you’re getting sufficient sleep to stay sharp.
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Use your social support system
When you’re working from home, don’t feel isolated – stay properly plugged into your social support system of family and friends by chatting online and taking time for phone calls.
