Vaccines are getting into arms, restrictions are loosening, and office doors are swinging back open all over the country. But much like it took some adjusting to get used to walking from your kitchen, it’s going to take some time to get back into the flow of working in a cubicle again. Here are some tips on how to stay focused as you make your return.
● Give Yourself Space. That first week back at your office desk is going to give you some moderate claustrophobia compared to your bed desk. So really explore your space. For example, productivity expert Barnaby Lashbrooke says to grab your laptop and duck into a conference room if you’re feeling squeezed or duck into a common area to write out some notes. If none of those exist in your floor plan, consider decluttering your workspace as much as possible and getting a nice pair of noise-canceling headphones.
● Set Some Goals. The only way to track how well you’re doing with your move back into the office is to set some goals. Just don’t overdo it. Productivity coach Kate Galbally recommends working in “micro-goals [and] 25-minute chunks of deep focus/mono tasking, separated with 5-minute breaks.”
● Replicate What Worked At Home. Before you start commuting in again, think about what helped you focus at home. Try to recreate that somehow in your office. Galbally says to consider everything including “sights, sounds, smells, [and] who is with you.” If there is an oil diffuser you love at home, bring it to your desk. If there was always light music playing in your remote space, grab some headphones for your office space. If your boo held you accountable at home, tell them to text you when they see you active on Facebook. You do whatever you need to do to stay productive!