NERD's Tips for Staying Productive and Motivated When Working Remotely
Above: Illustration by Heather Colbert
At NERD, we’ve been crafting in a flexible and remote approach for nearly five years now, due to our international talent and global clients. Our collaborative nature from our birth has meant that during these times, we have been continuing to bring to life visual delights, without risk to our teams, clients, and brands. With the working from home situation likely to be extended until later this year, we asked NERDs to share how they’re keeping productive and motivated while working from home. We hope their thoughts might empower you too!
Continuing conversations with co-workers, current clients, and prospective collaborators
To feel closer to the people I have been collaborating with and those I might collaborate with in the future, I have been checking in on a weekly basis. This has been a great way for me to feel grounded and spark conversations and look toward the future. I have been exercising and made sure to stay away from media bombarding.
- Lydia Kaufman, head of business and talent
Captured in Paragard by Hayley Morris
Staying motivated with a list
I like to start the day by being active. I get up and go for a 20 minutes power walk while listening to some good music, I love my R’N’B. Doing my hair and make-up makes a difference on how I will feel during the day. I like to keep myself organised, motivated, and productive, and to support this, I create to-do lists at the end of each day for the next – checking off goals and keeping track of progress.
- Claire Plaskow, executive producer
Connecting via video
I have always been working from home and the situation we’re currently living in hasn’t made a significant difference to my normal life. Morning me-time does wonders for me, I wake up in the earliest hours and prioritise this time to feel peaceful and have a moment with myself. Although I am based in Spain, it is essential for me to feel connected with the UK team and I regularly talk to teams and clients face to face via video chat.
- Maria Leal, business development manager
Illustration by Roman Bratschi
Taking time out and let the mind wander
I am not an exercise person and, in the morning, I like to have some time for myself and lay in – allow the thoughts to flow and let the mind wander. I have always been working from home and reaching out to people and brainstorm on a daily basis has been my ray of sunshine where I haven’t been able to connect people physically.
- Milana Karaica, founder and executive producer
Scheduling for work and personal times
I have started my new role remotely and while it comes with a few challenges, it was important for me to create a schedule that allows for my work to be done efficiently. I have assigned time to get work done and block out time for reading, hula hooping, and painting. This way, I am holding myself accountable for regular breaks to refresh the mind and the body.
- Ornella Kolle, social media strategist and content producer
