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Tag: Working From Home

  • How to create a home workspace that fits your lifestyle – Growing Family

    Collaborative post

    Working from home used to feel like a luxury, but for a lot of us, it’s just normal life now. Whether you’re working full-time remotely, running your own business, or just need a spot to manage bills and side projects, having a home workspace that feels right for you can be a game-changer.

    Your workspace doesn’t need to look like those Pinterest-perfect offices with white walls and matching furniture. What really matters is that it fits your lifestyle – how you work, how you move, and even how you relax when the day is done.

    Here’s how to create a home workspace that’s comfortable, practical, and totally you.

    desk with laptop and large monitor

    Start by working out what you actually need

    Before you buy a single piece of furniture, take a step back and think about how you actually work. Do you spend most of your day typing, or are you hopping from calls to emails to projects? Do you need two screens, or are you fine with just a laptop?

    If you’re the kind of person who needs peace and quiet to concentrate, then your workspace should reflect that. On the other hand, if you like having a little background noise or being close to family activity, maybe you don’t need to shut yourself away completely.

    The point is: don’t copy someone else’s setup just because it looks good. Start with your own habits.

    Location really does matter

    Now that you know what you need from a home workspace, think about where you’re going to set up shop. Not everyone has a spare room to turn into an office, and that’s fine. Sometimes a corner of the living room or even a part of your bedroom can do the job.

    If you can, choose a spot with natural light. It does wonders for your mood and helps you feel more awake. But if all you’ve got is a windowless corner, good lighting can save the day. A desk lamp with warm light makes a huge difference compared to harsh overhead bulbs.

    If distractions are a problem, noise-canceling headphones or even a simple room divider can help create a sense of separation.

    Invest in your comfort (don’t skip this)

    Here’s the truth: if your chair is uncomfortable, you’ll notice it within an hour. If your desk height is wrong, your shoulders and wrists will tell you in a week. Bad setups creep up on you, and before you know it, you could be dealing with back pain, stiff necks, or headaches.

    This is why investing in a good chair and desk is probably the best thing you can do. Look for a chair that supports your lower back and can be adjusted to your height. A desk that lets your arms rest at a natural angle will help you stay comfortable for longer stretches.

    Some people also like to switch things up with a standing table, which is a great way to keep your body from feeling stuck in one position all day. It doesn’t mean you’ll stand for eight hours straight, but having the option to alternate between sitting and standing can help keep your energy up and reduce aches and pains.

    home workspace with laptop and vase of flowershome workspace with laptop and vase of flowers

    Add a bit of “You” into the mix

    This is where the fun starts – personalising your workspace. A home office shouldn’t feel sterile. It should be somewhere in your home that you enjoy spending time.

    Bring in things that make you feel good. This could be a plant on your desk, a picture that inspires you, or even just your favourite mug. It doesn’t have to be much, just a few little touches that make the space feel yours.

    Colour also matters. Some people find blues and greens calming, while others like brighter, more energising tones. Don’t be afraid to experiment a little.

    Keep tech from taking over

    If you’ve ever had to untangle a nest of charging cables, you know how stressful a messy desk can feel. Organising your tech is one of those small changes that makes a huge difference.

    Cable clips, docking stations, or even just a simple basket to hide away chargers can tidy things up. If you use more than one device, consider wireless accessories so you’re not constantly swapping cords.

    Also, don’t underestimate the importance of a reliable internet connection and a decent webcam or microphone if you’re on calls often. Those little upgrades can make your work smoother and less frustrating.

    Build habits around your space

    A great workspace helps, but good habits keep you productive. If you blur the line between “work” and “home,” it’s easy to feel like you’re never really off the clock.

    One trick is to set clear start and end times for your day. Even if you don’t commute, you can create your own ritual. Maybe that’s making a cup of coffee before you start, or taking a quick walk when you finish.

    You should also always aim to take regular breaks. Getting up to stretch or step outside for a few minutes is a. great way to reset your brain. Your workspace is there to support you, but you also need to support yourself.

    Stay flexible

    Life can change, jobs can change, and even your energy levels can change. That’s why it’s a good idea to keep your workspace flexible.

    Modular shelves, rolling carts, or furniture you can easily rearrange give you room to adapt. Maybe you’ll need more storage in six months, or maybe you’ll shift your desk to catch better light in winter. If your setup can move with you, it’ll always feel like it fits.

    a woman taking a break to relax while sitting at a deska woman taking a break to relax while sitting at a desk

    Don’t forget your well-being

    The setup of your workspace isn’t solely about being productive. It’s about supporting your health, too. Sitting in one place for too long isn’t great for your body, and working in isolation isn’t great for your mind.

    So, build in movement. Stretch, go for a walk, or do a few quick exercises during the day. And for mental health, keep your space clean and organised, and stay connected with people outside of work.

    Your workspace should make life easier, not more stressful.

    Final thoughts

    Creating a home workspace that fits your lifestyle isn’t about having the most expensive furniture or a picture-perfect office. It’s about making a space that feels comfortable, works for the way you live, and helps you stay focused without draining your energy.

    Start with your needs, find the right spot, get comfortable, and add personal touches that make you smile. Keep your tech organised, stick to habits that give your day structure, and don’t forget to prioritise your well-being.

    When your home workspace feels like a natural extension of your life, work stops feeling like a struggle and starts feeling more balanced. And that’s the whole point.

    Have you managed to create a home workspace that supports your individual needs? Share your tips in the comments.

    Catherine

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  • Tech CEOs are backtracking on their RTO mandates—now, just 3% of firms asking workers to go into the office full-time

    Tech CEOs are backtracking on their RTO mandates—now, just 3% of firms asking workers to go into the office full-time

    Many tech firms have spent the last two years summoning workers back into the office—all the while threatening them with layoffs. Even Zoom reverted to in-person working last year.

    But now, it looks like tech bosses have given up their war on working from home. 

    Just 3% of tech firms are now asking their workers to go into the office full-time—a significant drop from 8% last year.

    Flex Index analyzed the flexible work policies for 2,670 tech companies that collectively employ over 11 million people—and it found that tech firms have conceded that flexible working is here to stay.

    In fact, 79% of the tech firms surveyed are fully flexible, up from 75% in 2023. 

    Meanwhile, more and more firms are giving employees the choice of when and where they work.

    While 38% of tech firms had an “employee’s choice” model in 2023, today that percentage has jumped to 56%. It’s now the most popular policy among tech firms.

    In comparison, just 18% of firms are dictating which days their workers need to work from the office with a “structure hybrid model”.

    Tech CEOs can’t make their minds up on RTO

    Tech companies are perhaps the most well-positioned to work from home—and, in some cases, have even created the tools to do so.

    It’s why in 2020, the likes of Meta, Twitter (now X), Shopify, and more declared that they were going to leverage the new decentralized way of working for good. 

    “We are going to be the most forward-leaning company on remote work at our scale, with a thoughtful and responsible plan for how to do this,” Mark Zuckerberg boasted, while claiming that half of Meta’s employees would be working remotely within the next five to 10 years. 

    That was until last year, when Zuckerberg declared that 2023 was going to be the “Year of Efficiency” and demanded workers return to work in the name of productivity, while simultaneously scaring staff into complying with mass layoffs.

    Meanwhile, just two years after declaring that 60% of its workforce would operate remotely, Dell has now told workers that they must go into the office three days a week if they want any hope of a promotion.

    Google, Salesforce and Amazon are also among major tech companies that are cracking down on return-to-office policies—and meeting resistance from workers.

    CEOs have given up on RTO

    It’s not just in the tech world that defeated CEOs have given up on forcing their workers to return to their vertical towers. Separate research echoes that CEOs across the board have softened their stance on working from home. 

    KPMG surveyed U.S. CEOs of companies turning over at least $500 million and found that just one-third expect a full return to the office in the next three years.

    It’s a complete 360 from their stance last year, when 62% of CEOs surveyed predicted that working from home would end by 2026.

    Why the change of heart? It’s no secret that rigid in-office policies haven’t landed well with workers.

    Leaders are perhaps experiencing more resistance than they had anticipated.

    Amazon is perhaps the most documented example of how ugly the RTO battle can get: Around 30,000 employees signed a petition protesting the company’s in-office mandate, and more than 1,800 pledged to walk out from their jobs to take a stand. 

    The tech giant is still complaining that workers are dodging the three-day in-office mandate, over a year after it was announced.

    Dropbox cofounder and CEO Drew Houston perfectly summed up the situation with bosses struggling over RTO: “They keep hitting the go-back-to-2019 button, and it’s clear it’s not working.”

    Orianna Rosa Royle

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  • The Best 6 Ways To Increase Creativity At Work

    The Best 6 Ways To Increase Creativity At Work

    You spend 40 hours there most weeks..why not have fun and make a difference.

    Work is part of most people’s life, and some days it can be a chore. But finding a way to make it interesting and engaging can make a huge life difference. Globally, people who enjoy their work are also more likely to be thriving in their lives. Getting creative helps you find way to keep your brain engaged and satisfied. Finding fresh or different ways accomplishing things tends to be personally rewarding. Here are the best 6 ways to increase creativity at work.

    RELATED: 5 Morning Activities To Help You Feel Happier

    Even in a remote job, or one where you work from home or in a car, creativity inspires employees to work with each other. The creative process encourages collaboration. Continuous learning encouraging people to seek new information, knowledge and different ways to do things.  Many unique ideas come from a person but they are developed by a team to become fully formed. With the ability to think creatively and outside of the box, people are more likely to come up with unique and innovative solutions to obstacles they encounter.

    Photo by VIKTOR HANACEK via picjumbo.com

    Take time to think

    Even with mundane tasks, there are ways to make it better.  Carve out 5-10 minutes in a walk or taking a break to think about ways to improve you tasks or at least make them more enjoyable.  As you daydream about possiblities or consider outside the box ideas, you are more likely to come up with unique and innovative solutions to problems.  Don’t be afraid of asking questions – frame them with “How did this start”.

    Don’t be afraid to fail

    One of the biggest hurdles to success is a fear of failure. Every person who has improved their job or built something and then gone on to bigger and better things has failed. If you think something could work, talk with you manager and explain the pluses and minuses and then try to give a go.  You will learn about problem solving and yourself.

    Brainstorm more often

    We brainstorm ideas constantly, whether we’re alone or with others, sometimes without even noticing it. One small upgrade to make brainstorm sessions more efficient is to add a whiteboard, a notepad or someplace where you can pin ideas down, even if they sound silly or unorthodox. This list doesn’t need to be perfect, it just needs to reflect your ideas so you won’t forget about them.

    Follow through on your ideas

    While ideas are great, it’s also important to follow through. Find a way of holding yourself accountable, whether by writing it down and pinning it on your board or, in a more extreme move, discussing your idea with your boss and eliminating escape routes. Do what works for you, but remind yourself that it’s often very easy to avoid disrupting your workload by sticking to what works, which can make you feel bored and uninspired.

    RELATED: 5 Ways To Schedule Your Day When Working From Home

    Shake things up

    When working a 9 to 5 job, it’s common for people to find a groove and stick to it. This is good, because it means that you know how to do your job and are comfortable in managing the everyday challenges of your positions. But it’s also something that holds a lot of people back, stopping them from trying out new activities and approaches that can be more fulfilling and result in better work. Don’t be afraid to speak up in your meetings and to pitch your ideas. The more you do it, the more comfortable you’ll become and the more your presence will be valued.

    Go for a walk

    Outdoor walks, where you get to see and smell the beauty of nature, are some of the most useful routines when channeling creativity, especially if you’ve been spending most of your time working indoors. Ideas can come from the most random interactions and things, especially if you’re actively on the lookout for them and are ready to engage with the world in different ways.

    Sarah Johns

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  • 1 in 3 employees—including in-office workers—regularly nap on the clock, survey says. Here’s who catches the most Z’s on the job and why

    1 in 3 employees—including in-office workers—regularly nap on the clock, survey says. Here’s who catches the most Z’s on the job and why

    If you work an office job, perhaps it’s happened to you. You didn’t get enough sleep last night. You’ve powered through the morning, yet your to-do list stretches on. You’re moving a bit slower, sated from lunch. Your computer screen becomes hazy. You glance out the window to see the sun starting its afternoon descent, and your eyelids droop with it. You decide to let yourself snooze just for a few minutes…

    Occasionally falling asleep at work is par for the course, according to a new survey by sleep wellness company Sleep Doctor, with 46% of respondents saying they nap during the workday at least a few times a year. What’s more, 33% reported doing so weekly—9% once per week, 18% several times per week, and 6% daily.

    Particularly if you didn’t get enough shut-eye the night before, taking a 20- to 25-minute nap may help you recharge and take on the remainder of your workday, says Sleep Doctor founder and clinical psychologist Michael Breus, Ph.D. But don’t make a habit of it.

    “While you might feel slightly sleepy between one and three in the afternoon—because everybody does, it’s due to a post-lunch dip in core body temperature—you should not require a nap,” Breus tells Fortune. “If you’re getting the sleep that you should be getting at night, you should not require a nap.”

    Midday snoozing is a big no-no for people with insomnia, Breus adds: “If you have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep at night, napping, all that does is make it worse.”

    Nearly 1,300 full-time U.S. employees completed the survey in March via Pollfish. Sleep Doctor didn’t provide additional details about the respondents, such as their shift schedules, workplace environments, or socioeconomic statuses. Though the survey isn’t a scientific study, it offers insight into the post-pandemic habits of the nation’s workforce, Breus says.

    Half of in-person employees nap in their cars

    It’s not just remote and hybrid employees who are catching Z’s during work hours. About 27% of in-person workers reported napping at the office on a weekly basis, compared to 34% of remote and 45% of hybrid workers. In-person employees napped in these locations:

    • Car: 50%
    • Desk: 33%
    • Company-designated napping place: 20%
    • Return home: 14%
    • Bathroom: 9%

    Napping in the workplace is a luxury, says Dr. Rafael Pelayo, a clinical professor in the Division of Sleep Medicine at the Stanford University School of Medicine.

    “There are a lot of health care disparity issues related to sleep,” Pelayo tells Fortune. “You can only nap at your job if you have a place to nap and it’s accepted by your employer. So a lot of people don’t have a place to nap where they work.”

    Pelayo adds, “If you work in an assembly line and you take a train to work, you don’t have a chance to nap anywhere. Or, if you’re in a place where you don’t feel safe; somebody who is napping is vulnerable to being robbed or attacked.”

    Men, younger staffers more likely to nap during workday

    More than half of male employees, 52%, told Sleep Doctor they nap at least a few times a year during work hours, compared to 38% of females. It’s unclear whether the survey collected data on non-cisgender workers.

    A majority of younger adult employees admitted to workday napping, a higher percentage than more seasoned staffers:

    • 18–34: 54%
    • 35–54: 46%
    • 55+: 25%

    Younger adults tend to be more sleep-deprived because they have less control over their lives, Pelayo tells Fortune. They may have children interrupting their sleep, elderly parents to care for, longer commutes, and more demands on their free time.

    “When people get older and they have medical problems, medical problems interrupt our ability to sleep, like arthritis, chronic pain. But healthy elderly people sleep really, really well,” Pelayo says. “They get better sleep than healthy young people. Healthy older people, the reason they ended up being healthy old people is they had good lifestyles.”

    Middle age Asian businessman feeling sleepy during working on laptop and meeting at café office
    More than half of male employees, 52%, told Sleep Doctor they nap at least a few times a year during work hours, compared to 38% of females. It is unclear whether the March 2024 survey collected data on non-cisgender workers.

    Nattakorn Maneerat—Getty Images

    Remote workers take longest workday naps

    “Smart naps” lasting 20–30 minutes may temporarily make you feel more alert and awake, says Alaina Tiani, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist at the Cleveland Clinic Sleep Disorders Center.

    “This increases the likelihood that your brain will stay in the lighter stages of sleep and that you will wake up refreshed,” Tiani tells Fortune via email. “When we nap much longer, we may cycle into deeper stages of sleep, which may be harder to wake from. We also recommend taking the nap as far in advance of your desired bedtime as possible to lessen the impact on your nighttime sleep quality.”

    More than half of workday dozers keep their naps under 30 minutes, according to Sleep Doctor: 

    • Fewer than 15 minutes: 26%
    • 15–29 minutes: 27%
    • 30–59 minutes: 24%
    • 1 hour: 12%
    • 2 hours: 9%
    • 3+ hours: 3%

    On average, 34% of remote and 31% of hybrid workers nap for longer than an hour, compared to 15% of in-person workers.

    That napping is less common in the Western world than other cultures made the survey data stand out to Michael Grandner, Ph.D., director of the Sleep and Health Research Program at the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Tuscson. 

    “The fact that many people who are working from home are more likely to take advantage of opportunities to nap was very surprising,” Grandner tells Fortune via email. “It suggests that many workers would prefer to integrate napping into their lifestyle if they could.”

    Why are employees napping at work?

    Staffers primarily cited some form of exhaustion as a reason for snoozing on the job, while others were simply bored:

    • Re-energize: 62%
    • Recover from poor sleep at night: 44%
    • Handle long working hours: 32%
    • Stress: 32%
    • Boredom: 11%
    • Avoid work: 6%

    But why are they so sleep-deprived to begin with? Ironically, the flipside of napping at work is 77% of survey respondents said job stressors cause them to lose sleep nightly. About 57% reported losing at least an hour of sleep on an average night. Most cited work-life balance as their top job stressor: 

    • Work-life balance: 56%
    • Demanding projects: 39%
    • Long hours: 39%
    • Upcoming deadlines: 37%
    • Struggling to get to work on time: 30%
    • Issues with boss: 22%
    • Interpersonal conflict in workplace: 20%
    • Fears of being fired or laid off: 19%

    Employees who lose sleep over job stress only to crave rest during the workday aren’t the norm, but their predicament isn’t rare either, Breus tells Fortune: “They kind of get their days and their nights mixed up.”

    Hybrid workers were most likely to report job stressors impacting their sleep, 88%, compared to 73% of in-person and 71% of remote workers. In addition, more higher-level employees, such as CEOs and senior managers, reported losing sleep over career stress, 84%, than lower-level employees, 71%.

    Napping on the job may have health, performance consequences

    Dozing at your desk may seem inconsequential on a slower workday or when you think your boss won’t notice. But some employees have paid the price, Sleep Doctor data show.

    Among nappers, 17% miss deadlines and 16% miss meetings at least once a month because they’re asleep on the job. About 27% of workers admit to falling asleep during a remote meeting in the past year, and 17% have done the same in person.

    While just 20% of workers faced consequences, some were serious:

    • Check in with supervisor more often: 62%
    • Workload changed: 56%
    • Sit down with manager: 49%
    • Suspended: 24%
    • Fired: 17%

    “Limiting sleep to one major nighttime window can help to ensure that you obtain an appropriate amount of sleep at night and thus do not require a daytime nap, which could interfere with work or other responsibilities,” Tiani says.

    Strategic daytime napping can be an effective tool to boost energy and productivity, Grandner says, but falling asleep at work when you don’t mean to may indicate an underlying health issue. 

    “For people who are unable to maintain consciousness, I would recommend evaluating your nighttime sleep to see if you have any untreated sleep disorders like sleep apnea, or if there are other steps you can take to achieve healthier sleep,” Gardner says.

    You should also consult your doctor if you’re typically not a napper but begin having unexplained fatigue, Pelayo says: “An abrupt change in your need for sleep would indicate a medical problem being present.”

    For more on napping during the workday: 

    Lindsey Leake

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  • If You Work From Home, Noise-Cancelling Headphones Are A Must

    If You Work From Home, Noise-Cancelling Headphones Are A Must

    Working from home, you get to avoid all of the noise that accompanies an office environment, including those untimely interruptions by colleagues stopping by to chat. However, a WFH environment presents its own set of challenges, ranging from the sound of your neighbors’ lawnmowers and weed-eaters to household noises and loud family members.

    Fortunately, active noise-cancelling (ANC) headphones can block all of those sounds to help you focus on work (or gaming – we won’t judge). And this can lead to enhanced productivity. “With fewer interruptions and distractions, you can work more efficiently and accomplish tasks more quickly,” according to Dr. Sapna Sriram, chiropractor and injury expert at Integra Health in Toronto. “This can improve your overall productivity, making noise-canceling headphones a valuable tool for remote work,” she tells us.

    Noise-cancelling headphones provide other benefits as well. “Continuous exposure to loud or distracting noises can lead to stress and fatigue, Sriram says. “Noise-canceling headphones can create a more peaceful work environment, which is essential for maintaining mental well-being.” In addition, she notes that constant exposure to loud noises, even when you’re at home, can have long-term effects on your hearing. “However, noise-cancelling headphones can help to reduce your exposure to harmful noise levels,” she says.

    But you want your noise-cancelling headphones to be comfortable — especially if you’ll be wearing them for an extended period of time. In fact, the comfort level is as important as the quality of sound when weighing WFH headphones with ANC features, according to Dr. Allen Conrad at the Montgomery County Chiropractic Center in North Wales, PA. He tells us that it’s important to understand the types of headphones to make an informed decision. “A supra-aural or on-ear type means the headset will lean up against your ear, and with circum-aural or over-ear headphones, the cup of the earphone will cover over your entire ear.”

    Sriram notes that headphones with an over-ear design tend to provide better passive noise isolation.” This can complement active noise cancellation for a more immersive and focused work experience,” she explains.

    Regardless of your preference, these are some of the features to keep in mind:

    Adjustable Headband

    If your head is larger than the average person’s noggin, Conrad recommends selecting a pair of noise-cancelling WFH headphones with telescoping extendable arms. “Trying to squeeze into a pair that’s too tight can put additional pressure on the temporalis muscles, which can, in time, lead to tension headaches — but expandable arms can help prevent this,” he explains.

    Sriram agrees, adding that an adjustable headband ensures a secure and comfortable fit, and prevents discomfort or pressure points on the head.

    Lightweight Design

    “Lightweight headphones are less likely to cause discomfort or strain during long working hours,” Sriram says. This is particularly important if you tend to sit at a computer for longer than 8 to 10 hours. “It may not seem like much at first, but these headsets are designed for the band to go over the top of your head, and all of that weighs down on your neck and spine,” Conrad explains.

    He recommends a smaller, more lightweight set of noise-cancelling headphones for smaller people, or those with a history of migraine headaches and neck pain. “As a general rule, over-ear headphones tend to put less pressure on the head and ears when compared to on-ear types,” Conrad says. This is a vital aspect to consider if you’re going to be wearing the headphones for an extended period of time.

    “While specific headphone models may vary, some well-known brands that focus on ergonomic designs include Bose, Sennheiser, and Sony,” Sriram says. However, since individual comfort preferences can vary, she recommends trying on headphones if possible.

    Material

    Quality is another factor to consider when choosing noise-cancelling headphones. “Most headphones that have a leather surface covering your ears are very comfortable and tend to be the more popular choice when considering high-end WFH headphones designed to reduce noise,” Conrad says. While leather feels good and provides a relaxing experience, he says it will also affect the price. “And leather can tend to crack and break down over time, although there are leather conditioners available that can help prevent this,” Conrad says.

    Many companies also sell replacement earcups ranging from $10 to $20.Whether you choose leather or not, Sriram says the quality of the headphone’s earcups is definitely a factor that should be considered. “Noise-cancelling headphones with well-padded earcups provide comfort during extended wear,” she says. “Memory foam or plush cushions can make a significant difference.”

    Connectivity And Intuitive Controls

    A secure wireless connection and controls that make sense are other features to weigh. Most of the best noise cancelling headphones can be used wirelessly, but they also include a 3.5mm analog cable for wired use.

    And some headphones use multipoint technology to simultaneously connect to two devices. For example, if you’re listening to music or watching a video, the headphones will pause what’s playing so you can answer a phone call, and then resume when the call is finished.

    The positioning of controls on the headphone can make the noise cancelling headphones a joy to use or a frustrating experience. “Easy-to-reach and use controls can reduce the need to make awkward movements while adjusting settings during work,” Sriram says. However, what’s comfortable for one person may be inconvenient for another one, so pay attention to the type and positioning of the controls to see what works best for you.

    Adjustable Noise Cancellation

    Although you may be buying noise cancellation headphones to block out noise, there are times when you may want to hear some of those background sounds. Some noise-cancelling headphones have a transparency mode when you want to be aware of your surroundings. Other headphones have a range of levels to choose from.

    These are some of the noise-cancelling headphones that can help to improve your WFH experience:

    Bose QuietComfort 45 Headphones

    As you might have been able to deduce from its name, the lightweight Bose QuietComfort 45 Headphones can be worn all day without being cumbersome. The plush, protein leather cushions are not only comfortable, but also durable — and they have acoustical properties as well. With a quiet mode and an aware mode, you can choose to completely block noise or allow ambient sounds — or you can use the custom mode (in the Bose Music app) to blend the two modes. Battery life is up to 24 hours, and the EQ is adjustable. Color choices include Black, Moonstone Blue, White Smoke, and Cypress Green.

    Master & Dynamic MW75 Headphones

    It’s easy to fall in love with the sleek design of the Master & Dynamic MW75 Headphones, which are made of anodized aluminum, tempered glass, and lambskin leather on the headband and ear pads. The memory foam ear pads are also replaceable. The headphones feature 3 ANC modes: adaptive, max, or all-day ANC. Battery life is up to 32 hours (28 with ANC enabled), and multipoint connection allows you to switch between two devices. The headphones are also compatible with voice assistants. Some of the many color choices include Silver Metal/Brown Leather, Silver Metal/Black Leather, Gunmetal/Navy Leather, and Silver Metal/Grey Leather.

    Soundcore Space Q45 Headphones

    For a comfortable ANC option that won’t break the bank, consider the Soundcore Space Q45 Headphones. The aluminum alloy hinges are easy to slide, and the cushy earcups are made of skin-friendly materials. The adaptive noise cancelling automatically adjusts to the best noise reduction choice, but using the Soundcore app, there’s also a custom noise cancelling feature with five levels to choose from. The app also lets you adjust the EQ, and change other settings. Battery life on the multipoint headphones is an impressive 65 hours with ANC off, and 50 hours with it on. Color choices are Blue, Black, and White.

    Edifier WH950NB Headphones

    For an extra-cushy, pillowy-soft feeling, the Edifier WH950NB Headphones are made of soft protein leather and memory foam ear pads. They feature active noise cancellation and also ambient sound aware modes – as well as a wind reduction option (which is useful when you’re outside). The headphones also have music mode, gaming mode, and theatre mode settings for the ideal audio, depending on your activity. Using the Edifier Connect app, you can enable the safe volume setting to ensure the headphones never exceed 85dB (the recommended safe limit). The heads have a dual-device connection and a battery life of 55 hours, 34 with ANC on. Color choices are Black, and White.

    Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Headphones

    With lightweight cast aluminum arms, Nappa leather trim, memory foam earpads, and diamond-cut metal detailing, these stylish Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Headphones deliver good looks, along with immersive sound, and comfort. Adjustable noise cancellation can be switched between ANC modes. The app provides more functionality, allowing you to adjust EQ settings, enable voice control, and more. The headphones have a 30-hour battery life, and color choices are Black, Royal Burgundy, and Tan.

    Beats Studio Pro Headphones

    The Beats Studio Pro Headphones are popular for a reason. The stylish materials include engineered leather cushions and metal sliders for comfortable listening, and the headphones have an ANC mode and a transparency mode. When using USB-C audio, there’s the option to select between three sound profiles: the Signature profile for music, the Entertainment profile for movies and games, and the Conversation profile for phone calls. Battery life is 40 hours, and there’s also a “Find My” feature in case you lose the headphones. Color choices include Deep Brown, Navy, Black, and Sandstone.

    Focal Bathys Headphones

    Magnesium, leather, and aluminum combine to make the Focal Bathys Headphones a work of art. Also, the grilles on the earcup have a white backlight system (which can be turned off, if you prefer). The headphones have 3 ANC modes: transparent, soft, and silent, and the headphones are also compatible with voice assistants. Battery life is 30 hours on the lightweight headphones, which can be used with the Focal & Naim app to set preferences and change settings. Color choices include Black/Gray, and Dune.

    Sennheiser Accentum Headphones

    If you tend to forget to charge headphones, the Sennheiser Accentum Headphones provide a whopping 50-hour battery playtime on a single charge. With both ANC and transparency modes, the lightweight headphones — which have cushioned earcups and a silicone-lined headband — let you hear outside noise when you need to. There’s also a smart control app that lets you choose from podcast mode or bass boost, and provides other customizable features. At the time of publication, the headphones were only available in black.

    Sony WH-1000XM5 Headphones

    The soft fit leather and memory foam earcups on the lightweight Sony WH-1000XM5 Headphones make them quite a comfortable choice for blocking noise when you’re working from home. The auto noise control optimizers automatically select the best mode based on the conditions in your environment. The headphones also feature multipoint connectivity, are compatible with voice assistants, and have a 30-hour battery life. Color choices are Midnight Blue, Black, and Silver.

    Shure Aonic 50 Gen 2 Headphones

    If you’re not a fan of leather, the Shure Aonic 50 Gen 2 Headphones are made with anodized aluminum and a premium faux leather headband and (replaceable) earcups. The adjustable digital hybrid active noise cancellation lets you select the preferred level of noise cancellation in the ShurePlus Play app. Also, the headphones have a music mode, cinema mode, and podcast mode for a more customized listening experience. Battery life is up to 45 hours, and black is currently the only color choice.

    Terri Williams, Contributor

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  • Tips for Remote Work and Working From Home | Entrepreneur

    Tips for Remote Work and Working From Home | Entrepreneur

    Disclosure: Our goal is to feature products and services that we think you’ll find interesting and useful. If you purchase them, Entrepreneur may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our commerce partners.

    Flexible employment arrangements like hybrid models and fully remote work are becoming the norm for many industries. Love it or hate it, the future of working may not take place in an office.

    Remote work expands the talent pool employers can pull from while providing the flexibility modern workers expect. For employees, some perks of working from home include:

    • Taking time back from commuting
    • Owning their schedule
    • The ability to take care of personal responsibilities throughout the day

    If you’re working remotely full-time or a few days out of the week, or you’re scouring job boards like ZipRecruiter looking for remote work, these tips can help you succeed and stay productive.

    Establish a routine.

    Poor work-life balance can negatively impact your happiness. Establishing a routine that works for you with defined working hours can help you distinguish between the two.

    Set a schedule and try to stick with it. Creating a to-do list can give you a set of goals to accomplish in your day and keeps a structure you can follow. Aside from your work tasks, include times when you’re exercising, eating lunch and recharging.

    Choose a dedicated workspace.

    While remote work provides flexibility, getting into a routine can be challenging when you don’t have a dedicated regular workspace. Ideally, your workstation will have a door so you can join meetings uninterrupted without worrying about people walking in and out. You’ll also want to work somewhere with limited distractions so you can be the most productive.

    Set it up with all the supplies you need ahead of time so you can get in the zone: paper, pens, cell phone charger, headphones, comfortable chair, extra monitor, reliable Wi-Fi, etc.

    Try prepping meals ahead of time.

    Cooking a nice breakfast or lunch daily can be tempting, but it can cut into valuable work time. Prepping your meals Sunday or the night before can ensure you still get a delicious, nutritious meal throughout the week. It can also save you money in the long run by helping you resist the urge to order out.

    Use a VPN.

    Security is essential to working remotely, and many businesses require a secure network outside the office. A VPN can keep your network safe while you’re on public Wi-Fi. You may want one anytime you’re working off-site in a coffee shop, co-working space, airport, etc.

    If you’re frequently working outside the office, consider asking your company to provide access to a VPN to keep sensitive information safe.

    Stay social.

    Working from an office generally presents more social opportunities than working from home. It can be tempting to stay online longer when you feel you don’t get as much face time with your team, but you need to stick with regular working hours to keep your sanity.

    To stay social while working remote, schedule virtual happy hours, attend trainings your company holds, or pop into a coffee shop or chat up the delivery courier if you need real social interaction.

    If you’re exploring hybrid or remote working roles, look for your next career move at ZipRecruiter. It’s the #1 rated job site in the U.S.1, and it’s free to sign up. You can filter open roles by in-person, hybrid or fully remote.

    ZipRecruiter leverages powerful matching technology to get your resume in front of top companies, improving the likelihood of finding the right fit. It also offers a convenient mobile app, and one-tap apply, so you can confidently apply to jobs wherever you are. Perhaps best of all, with ZipRecruiter, job seekers can create job alerts, save jobs, apply, and post your resume all for free.

    1 Based on G2 satisfaction ratings as of January 1, 2022

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  • Work-from-home deal ‘groundbreaking’, but business groups warn of CBD ‘death knell’ – Medical Marijuana Program Connection

    Work-from-home deal ‘groundbreaking’, but business groups warn of CBD ‘death knell’ – Medical Marijuana Program Connection

    Working-from-home caps will be scrapped for thousands of Australian public sector workers — but business lobbyists in one capital city say any such moves at local level would be a “death knell” for CBD retail.

    The Community and Public Sector Union (CPSU) yesterday announced it had struck a deal with the Australian Public Service Commission for more flexible working arrangements.

    The deal includes an agreement to remove caps on the number of days staff can work from home, allowing them to stay at home permanently unless there were “clear business reasons” to refuse a request.

    “Federal public servants can make a request to work from home,” CPSU National Secretary Melissa Donnelly told ABC Radio Perth.

    “There are limited circumstances [where] it can be refused, but there’s a bias towards ‘yes’, and there are no caps.

    “Some companies, some government agencies, have just come up with arbitrary rules about the number of days in the office and the number of days working from home, and this deal gets rid of those caps as well.”

    The CPSU has more than 120,000 members across Australia and has described the deal as a “groundbreaking” one that would “open doors for individuals…

    Original Author Link click here to read complete story..

    MMP News Author

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  • 6 Ways to Make Money from Home

    6 Ways to Make Money from Home

    Disclosure: Our goal is to feature products and services that we think you’ll find interesting and useful. If you purchase them, Entrepreneur may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our commerce partners.

    Whether you’re looking for a little extra cash on the side or something to earn you income full-time, there are many ways to make money from home. Your best option will depend on your skills, interests, and resources.


    Shutterstock

    Here are some suggestions to get you started in your quest to make money from home.

    1. Work remote.

    Since remote work has become so common in recent years, consider asking your employer if they’re open to flexible remote work options. If not, looking for remote job openings on job search websites like ZipRecruiter can land you full and part-time roles at incredible companies from all over the world. This popular job board offers “hybrid” and “remote” filters that let you search for jobs that can be performed outside of an office.

    2. Sell products or services online.

    Make money at home by leveraging your skills or hobbies. Turn your passions into a business by setting up an online store or offering services through websites like Etsy, eBay, or Fiverr. You can also promote and sell your products through your own website or social media platforms.

    3. Become a freelancer.

    If you have a specific skill set, such as writing, design, or accounting, you can offer your services as a freelancer. Many websites, such as Upwork and Freelancer, connect freelancers with clients looking for their services. Many well-known employers post contract opportunities on ZipRecruiter as well.

    4. Rent a room on Airbnb.

    If you have an extra room in a residence you own, you can earn extra income by renting it on Airbnb. You’ll need to create a listing and set the price, and Airbnb will handle the rest, including booking and payment.

    5. Offer pet-sitting or dog-walking services.

    If you love animals, consider offering pet-sitting or dog-walking services in your local area. You can advertise your services through social media or local classified ads or use websites like Rover or Barkly to connect with potential clients.

    6. Sell items you no longer need.

    One of the easiest ways to make money from home is to sell things like clothes, electronics, or other items you no longer use. Consider selling them through websites like Poshmark, Depop, or eBay, hosting a garage sale or participating in a local flea market.

    There’s no better time to make money from home. Think about your interests, skills, and resources to see what the best option for you would be. Don’t be afraid to get creative and think outside the box.

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