How are WFHers utilising their extra time?

Although remote working has brought about its challenges, it does offer a major silver lining – extra time. Before the pandemic, the UK’s average daily commute was 62 minutes a day, with 15% of workers commuting 102 minutes or more. So how are WFHers spending their extra time?

Sleeping

The 6AM alarm ring to wake up in time to catch the bus for work is now over for many; who now may only need to reach for their laptop to start the day. Some people have found that the extra sleep has helped them to be more productive throughout the day, whereas others find that the lack of commute can make them feel sluggish. Research reveals that the key to this might be in the morning routine. As many WFHers had a morning routine pre-pandemic, which has since dissipated as they have been remote working. Either way, remote workers are now sleeping an extra 30 minutes to 1 hour daily.

Preparing for the day

Although reading emails on a commute is a common way to pass the time, it can be difficult to prepare for the day ahead whilst on public transport. From home, many people find that they can use the extra time to create to-do-lists or plans for the day ahead. This can increase productivity and work ethic throughout the day.

Eating breakfast!

Only 44% of people ate breakfast every day before the pandemic, which experts believe was caused by lack of appetite due to early mornings, or not having enough time. Since remote working has become more common, more people are eating breakfast each day. More still, research also reveals that people are eating breakfast foods like a bowl of cereal at a range of times throughout the day!

Hobbies

The extra time each day has provided a lot of people with the opportunity to practice their hobbies. There has been a 12% increase in people playing musical instruments and a 32% increase in purchases of arts and crafts materials. Having hobbies outside of work is an effective way to decrease stress and recuperate.

Increased exercise

Finding the time for a pre or post workout run before the pandemic may have been difficult, however with the extra time provided by remote working, exercise is a great way to use the time. Not only can it help to shift some of the lockdown weight gain, but it is great for your mental health too! Exercise releases endorphins which can make you feel happy, reduce anxiety and improve your quality of sleep.