In a survey conducted by The Philippine Business Coalition for Women Empowerment and Investing in Women, 60% out of 300 working men and 300 women reported that they started to work from home at the onset of the pandemic. 

Some expressed their approval of the remote work set-up resulting in a higher level of productivity, while others were left either with no job or a skeletal schedule of reporting to work physically.

Undeniably, the pandemic has affected us in several ways, especially our work. But as more and more Filipinos start to embrace the changing landscape of the workforce in the Philippines, how can we ensure our level of productivity while working remotely?

The Dilemmas of Working from Home

According to a survey done in America, three out of 10 employees don’t take their breaks when working from home. In addition, out of 2000 Americans, 29 percent don't take any meal breaks in between work, while six out of 10 employees feel guilty for taking breaks.

Meanwhile, in the Philippines, employees reported having internet connection problems concerning the work-from-home set-up. 

As more businesses transition to digital, employees are now also stationed in the comforts of their homes. A fast and reliable internet connection is (if not the most important) one of the most vital factors in ensuring one’s productivity. 

Internet speed is often associated with economic productivity, more robust performance, and more excellent output quality among the workforce. And on the flip side, it’s also one of the dilemmas of people in a work-from-home set-up.

Meanwhile, according to an article, those new to this setup are likely to feel anxious, stressed, and mentally exhausted. The same report reveals the following issues among remote workers:

• Interruptions or distractions at home
• Heavier workload
• Communication issues with co-workers
• Longer working hours

One’s mental health, well-being, and technical issues are only some of the dilemmas of employees working remotely. 

What about its benefits?

Effects of Working from Home on an Employee’s Productivity

While employees face several challenges while working from home, some studies say employees reported being more productive while doing remote work.

As published in an article, a study reveals that 16,000 workers from Stanford are said to have an increased productivity level by working from home.

Moreover, in another survey, 77% of those working remotely showed increased productivity, while 30% reported having accomplished more work in less time.

Meanwhile, issues arise from this setup, such as a higher chance of procrastinating and getting distracted. 

How to Stay Motivated and Productive While Working from Home

Without a doubt, there are pros and cons of being in a remote work setup, and it depends on how one responds to it.

If you are one of those people who are struggling with focus and productivity while working from home, here are ten tips and tricks to help you stay motivated and productive while working remotely:

1. Assign a dedicated workspace

You’re more likely to get distracted when your workspace is not separated from your play or living area. So strive to create a dedicated space for work to help you focus on your tasks and direct your attention to your work.

2. Create a schedule (and stick to it)

This trick is adequate for most people working from home as they can monitor their tasks efficiently while setting breaks in between.

3. Limit distractions

While social media can be helpful in your line of work, it can also be a distraction when you’re trying to accomplish tasks. So the best thing to do is set a time for a social media break and avoid scrolling through your phone when working on a task.

4. Divide your workload

Don’t try to accomplish everything at once. Instead, be easy on yourself and divide your workload by blocks. By doing so, you may find yourself completing more stuff than usual while at the same time preventing yourself from being overwhelmed with your long to-dos.

5. Take breaks

Taking a break is as vital as ticking off a task from your list. Don’t forget to do some stretching, meditate, make yourself a coffee, or simply walk away from your workstation for a few minutes.

6. Find an emotional or artistic outlet

Being confined in your room for long periods could take a toll on your mental health, so try to find an emotional or artistic outlet where you can express your feelings. Journaling works for some, while painting, drawing, or writing might also work for you. Try these tips out and see which one works best for you!

7. Talk to your co-workers and friends

Working remotely should not limit you from getting in touch with your co-workers and friends. Exchange ideas, join brainstorming sessions and get feedback from them so you can stay at the top of your game.

8. Practice self-care

Put on some make-up, dress up, and wear your favorite accessory if it will make you feel better and more motivated. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with getting ready for (remote) work!

9. Declutter your space

One reason why you’re getting distracted and unmotivated is because of your disorganized workspace. So practice the art of decluttering and see what difference it makes to your mood and productivity!

10. Reward yourself

Rewards can be great motivators as you will have something to look forward to upon completing your tasks. Don’t deny yourself of the things that will make you happy! Buy yourself a new book, eat something you like, listen to your favorite podcast, cuddle with your pet, or buy yourself a luxury item you’ve wanted to own!

Reward yourself with an affordable luxury this 2022

Speaking of rewards, if a property investment is on your bucket list this 2022, take a step towards accomplishing your goal this year! 

Not only can a property give you tenfolds of ROI or return on investment in a few years, but it could also be a passive source of income, which means that you don’t have to worry about making money in the future as your property investment works for you!

The country’s leading developer, Empire East, offers a range of developments across Metro Manila. Its newest and biggest project to date– Empire East Highland City, is a pre-selling development you might want to check out.

It has four (4) grand phases, including an 8,000 sqm. open space called the Highland Park, a 58,000 sqm. Highland Mall, a 6,700 sqm. Chartered Club with amenities and the 37-tower Highland Residences.

Learn more about Empire East Highland City and other developments by visiting www.empire-east.com or sending an email to inquiry@empire-east.com.

You may also follow Empire East on social media for more updates.