As remote work continues to reshape the professional landscape, UCCS alumni are not alone in navigating their own remote roles or leading teams virtually.
Drawing from expert insights on Forbes, government data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, mental health guidance from the NHS, and community wisdom from online, here are practical tips to help the Mountain Lion community thrive in the remote work environment.
For Remote Workers: Building Productivity and Wellbeing
Create a Dedicated Workspace
Forbes recommends “creating a designated area in your home that is solely dedicated to work” to help set and maintain boundaries, while also improving focus. Online forums echoed this, noting that “keeping my office a true work-only space has helped to increase my productivity and focus.” UCCS Downtown offers free space for alumni local to Colorado Springs who are looking for a change of scenery when working remotely.
Stick to a Routine
Experts within the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) suggest following a steady schedule to avoid the line between work and personal time becoming blurred. “Follow your normal sleep and work patterns if you can and stay consistent.” One online user added, “I try to imitate a commute. So, I would go out and walk for 10 minutes…then come back and start working.”
Dress for Success
Forbes encourages remote workers to “get dressed for the day even if you don’t have any on-camera meetings.” Online users agree: “Get dressed like you normally would for work. No working in pajamas.”
Take Breaks and Move
Forbes suggests taking regular breaks, even if they’re short as doing so regularly can help reframe your perspective and refocus your mind. The NHS says “even just five to ten minutes of short breaks each hour can really help your productivity.”
Stay Connected
Forbes recommends informal catchups: “Place emphasis on having a daily or weekly catch-up with someone different from your team… used as a time to have those coffee break discussions.” The NHS also encourages video calls and phone chats to combat isolation.
Set Boundaries
Forbes advises: “Set personal boundaries for your time. It is essential to set work hours… Mindfulness and planning will cure any issues.” The NHS adds, “Try to switch off when the working day is over, and enjoy time with family or friends.” The Gallogly Wellness and Recreation Center at UCCS has several resources available for those looking to become more mindful included guided meditation and breathing exercises
Use Tools Wisely
Online users recommend multiple monitors, mechanical timers, and focus music. One user shared, “I use a mechanical progress timer for Pomodoro sessions…and a Google speaker playing focus music.”
For Managers: Leading Remote Teams Effectively
Prioritize Communication and Transparency
Forbes notes: “We hold two all-hands meetings a week…These take a total of 45 minutes but help build connections and familiarity.”
Invest in Digital Infrastructure
Forbes emphasizes the need for “clear lines of communication, tools for employees to stay on track and ways to continually support and cheer each other on.”
Foster Belonging and Connection
Forbes recommends “virtual fitness or cooking classes [that] feed multiple aspects of whole-person well-being and foster belonging.”
Customize Support
Forbes highlights: “The best thing a manager can do…is to clearly define expectations and boundaries. This type of transparency can be priceless.”
Track Performance Thoughtfully with an Open Mind
According to a 2024 study from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, “a one percentage-point increase in the rise in the percentage of remote workers is associated with a 0.08 percentage-point increase in total factor productivity (TFP) growth.” This suggests that remote work, when managed well, can enhance productivity.
Promote Mental Health
The NHS recommends “regular time in green space… or have a tea or coffee break” to support mental wellbeing. Managers can encourage these habits and model healthy boundaries. For those in the Colorado Springs area, the UCCS campus is a beautiful campus to take a quick walk, hike, or bike ride. Check your local parks and recreation department website for outdoor areas to explore near you.
Whether you are a recent graduate adjusting to remote work or a seasoned leader managing virtual teams, embracing these strategies can help you stay productive, connected, and well. Remote work is more than a trend—it’s a skillset, and with the right tools and mindset, UCCS alumni can lead the way.