Some tips to get stuff done and make the most out of coworking
You’ve recently discovered the magical world of co-working, yay! But after the first few months, and a hundred new Facebook friends, you start to get distracted by the level of activity. How do you take advantage of the buzz, while simultaneously keeping productivity up?
We offer some simple hacks to make sure you make the most of your co-working experience:
Hack #1: Create a (detailed) daily schedule
At a co-working space, you are the boss of your time. Yes, you. Make sure you track your daily tasks by creating (and sticking to) a daily work schedule. Try techniques like Pomodoro or Timeboxing where you spend a set block of time on work, which in return rewards you with a few minutes of play. Also, use the first 10 minutes of your day to prioritise and plan your workload for the day.
Hack #2: Reward yourself for accomplishments (big or small!)
Don’t wait for a pat on the back from your colleagues, just pat yourself on the back once in a while. Treat yourself whenever you complete a task. Grab a juice, plank, meditate or play a quick game of Ping-Pong for 5 minutes. At WORQ, we believe that short thinking breaks are where the magic happens, which is why we provide unlimited coffee and healthy snacks, a games room and meditation room for members to just decompress.
Also Read: Coworking in Indonesia: Opportunities and challenges
Hack #3: Do some office yoga
Being glued to your computer screens increases the risk of neck, back, and shoulder pains, as well as strained vision. While you’re waiting patiently at the printer, do a quick stretch for your back, arms, and legs, to reduce muscle fatigue. When seated, try a seated twist — twisting to one side from the bottom of your spine (more from your abdomen, less from your back) while grabbing your armrest. Breathe deeply and repeat.
Hack #4: Ask and it shall be given
Your membership to the space is worth more than the physical space. One of the most valuable things about being at a coworking space are the connections you make. Don’t be afraid to ask for help – the best recommendations for all your needs are a just a few steps away – from the best graphic designer, to the cheapest booze in town.
Hack #5: Show up at events
Most co-working spaces host plenty of social events that serve as networking opportunities. You don’t have to attend every event, but showing up consistently would bring more success than it would failure. The space is already set up for constructive interactions (usually with free food and drinks!), so why not make the most of it?
Also Read: In Southeast Asia, coworking spaces are no longer just for startups and freelancers
Hack #6: Consult your friendly community manager
Don’t forget that the community managers at your coworking space are there to help. These are your fairy godparents and they just want you to do your best work. They’ll be spending a lot of time learning about their members, so they would be a walking directory of who and what is available. The community managers at WORQ are at your disposal 24/7 to answer any burning questions you may have.
Hack #7: Invest in noise cancelling headphones
Occasionally, the chatter will just get to you. Fret not! Some seriously noise-cancelling headphones will keep you safely in your productivity zone. It serves as a subtle ‘do not disturb’ sign. Some coworking spaces also offer quiet zones for people to get their sh*t done so find out if this is available and make the most of it. WORQ also offers ‘quiet’ phone booths, if you need to make an important call or just hide-away to do your thinking.
So go forth and strike the right balance, and be prepared to do your best work at a coworking space. I know I do.
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