As we continue to progress out of the COVID19 pandemic, remote work seems to be one reality that’s here to stay. 

44% of people who work remotely have stated that they’d prefer to remain working from home even when in-person office restrictions are lifted. And they have good reason. Studies have shown that working remotely can actually lead to increased productivity and work satisfaction among employees. 

With many companies adopting a permanent, hybrid remote structure, it's important to sustain a positive work environment at home in order to tune out the distractions.

Check out these 5 tips to help keep you energized, productive and focused when working remotely!

1) Eat a well-balanced breakfast

Breakfast - it’s the most important meal of the day. What you put on your plate in the morning can have a huge impact on how you perform for the rest of the day. Eating a balanced breakfast is crucial for increasing energy production and maintaining optimal digestive health. Make sure your first meal consists of carbs, proteins and fats for an extra energy-boost. Our favorites? Greek yogurt, oatmeal, 1-2 eggs and a cup of BuzzFit Hot Coffee + Protein. 

2) Take a morning walk

Not only is walking a great source of physical activity, but studies show that hitting the pavement in the morning can boost energy levels and mood among adults as well. Going for a walk outside within an hour of waking up has also been found to improve natural circadian rhythms, which make it easier to fall and stay asleep at night. TLDR: head outside for a 20-30 minute walk 3-5x per week before you open your email. 

3) Drink enough water

You’ve probably been told dozens of times to drink more water - but it’s true! Dehydration can lead to fatigue, foggy thinking and a lack of energy. Maintaining adequate hydration is key in supporting a whole host of bodily functions. The U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine state that the recommended daily fluid intake for men is about 15 cups, and 11 cups for women. Keep a water bottle next to your workstation to remind yourself to stay hydrated. 

4) Take short breaks throughout the day

Even though taking a break may seem counterintuitive for staying productive, it's been proven that short, sporadic breaks spread throughout the work day can help reduce stress and improve focus + engagement. If you’ve got a marathon day of  conference calls and Zoom's, try squeezing in a handful of 5-15 minute breaks in between meetings to reboot and recharge your brain. Take a quick walk, stretch, or schedule a video-check-in with a coworker for a virtual chat!

5) Create a positive work environment

The physical space where you sit down to work can play a huge role in how productive you are. Just like you would at the office, make your work environment at home comfortable and unique to you. If you don’t have a dedicated room to use as an office, try creating a flexible working environment outside of your kitchen or bedroom to separate your work space from your living space.

Sources:

• https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/4-ways-to-boost-your-energy-naturally-with-breakfast
• https://www.healthline.com/health/morning-walking-benefits#energy
• https://www.verywellhealth.com/morning-sunlight-exposure-3973908
• http://selfdeterminationtheory.org/SDT/documents/2010_RyanWeinstenEtAl_JEVP.pdf
• https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/water/art-20044256
• https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20190312-the-tiny-breaks-that-ease-your-body-and-reboot-your-brain
• https://www.usnews.com/news/national-news/articles/2021-02-12/majority-of-americans-work-remotely-a-year-into-coronavirus-pandemic-poll-finds
• https://www.pewresearch.org/social-trends/2020/12/09/how-the-coronavirus-outbreak-has-and-hasnt-changed-the-way-americans-work/