Many of us are now working from home, and it’s not always easy. You may have seen this funny video from an otherwise serious BBC interview and relate now more than ever.   

 

Much has rapidly changed in a few short weeks as millions of us now experience “WFM.”  This abbreviation for “Works for Me” or “Works from Home” are both appropriate in today’s new virtual work environment. For some of us, working remotely is not new.

Executive Director for Blue Zones Project Hawaii, Ann Hayashi, and her team successfully collaborate from separate islands, working together to make Hawaii one of the healthiest states in the nation, according to many metrics. Not surprisingly nor out of character, this talented team volunteered to share their tips for success below.

• Move Naturally
  • Ensure you take time during the day to stretch frequently or better yet, go for a walk outside before work starts, between calls or at the end of the day.

• Right Outlook
  • Downshift and take mental breaks as well as physical breaks during the day. Taking 5-10 minute micro-breaks during the work day will help you stay focused and productive.

• Eat Wisely
  • Create menus with a plant slant to ensure you have healthy meals throughout the day. Take a break at lunch, and eat with your kids if they are home from school.
  • Being near the kitchen all day makes it all too tempting to eat more than we need to, making it hard to practice the 80 percent rule. Prepare healthy snacks, such as cut up veggies, ahead of time to avoid mindless eating during the workday.
  • Schedule virtual "Friends at Five" coffee meetings with your coworkers in the morning to ensure priorities are aligned. You can also share a toast to decompress from the work week during a virtual Friday Wine at Five.

• Connect
  • Set boundaries for your workday and end at a reasonable hour so you can enjoy time with your family and put loved ones first.
  • Mangers should check-in frequently with their teams and be patient with each other as you transition to your new work environments.

We recognize that not everyone has the capability to work from home, and especially appreciate those still working in healthcare, deliveries, grocery stores, restaurants and online schools. Take time to thank the people you encounter in these roles over the coming weeks.

 

If you are struggling with concerns about mental or financial well-being, contact your company’s Human Resources team. Many employers offer an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and financial wellness tools that can help alleviate stress.

As always, Sharecare has your back. Check out our COVID-19 page for real-time updates, resources, and tips for managing your well-being during this uncertain time.

 

For more tips on successfully working from home, check out Blue Zones Project Hawaii’s latest newsletter HERE.