Do You Bring Work Home?

According to a news item about a survey by Regus, 47% of Malaysian bring home their work at least three times a week. It is higher than the world average of 43%. It is an unhealthy trend. They must observe work/life balance and here are the ways to avoid bringing work home:

1.      Start early: When you have more work to do on a particular day, it is good to start your working day ahead of all others. You can work with full concentration on an important job with no one to interrupt you.  In the morning your mind is fresh and your energy is at its peak. By the time others have arrived you have already completed a major assignment. There is no need to work overtime or take work home.

2.      Plan ahead: Get organized; be orderly at work.  Plan ahead the night before with a to-do list, work accordingly with full attention. Taking a break upon completion of each task is a wise move to be more productive at work.  

3.      Avoid distractions and interruptions: To work productively, you need to work without disturbances.  Can you work with peace of mind and mindfully without thinking of something else? Are you able to work without distractions especially from the Net? Will you be able to signal to others that you do not wish to be interrupted while busy at work?

4.      An attitude of urgency at work: Do not think that if you can’t finish your work, you still can take home to do it. Discipline yourself to complete your work during working hours because work expands to fill the time available for its completion.

5.      Work and home life do not mix: Working at home is not productive. At home family members need your attention. You are also disturbed by other distractions. You may not produce your best work because you are at home and not at work. The environment is different.

Leave work at work and be at home with family only.