As the COVID-19 continues to spread across the world, more and more people find themselves working from home. Those who enjoy working from their own space, and have the right infrastructure, working from home is a real blessing. They can now spend more time with their parents, spouses, children and pets. But, for those who do not have the right infrastructure or those who live in distractive environment, working from home will take some easing into.
If you are one of those people, this blog post is for you. In this post, we have covered top 10 work from home tips that will come in handy during the COVID-19 pandemic.
For Newbie WFHers:
Set Up Your Workspace: It could be in the basement where no can find you. It could be on a corner of the terrace. It can be in the middle of the hall. It can be wherever you want it to be. But, designate an area of the house as your workplace, and set it up accordingly. As soon as you sit down in this area, it should send clear signal to your brain that now is the time to focus, and minimize distractions.
Get Ready For The Day: Don’t give in to sloppiness. Don’t break your routine. Don’t stay up till too late. Don’t grab that last drink because you know you have to get to work the next day. Wake up fresh in the morning, like you’d do on any other weekday morning, eat your breakfast, take a shower, and head to your workspace.
Stick to Your Work Hours: Don’t take your work lightly, and don’t over-burden yourself with work. Stick to your working hours. Make sure you don’t end up working 24/7 just because you are working from home. This is hamper your work-life balance and reduce your productivity in the long run.
For Seasoned WFHers:
Own Your Time: You may find yourself surrounded my family members in a work from home set-up during the COVID-19. They will have their demands on your time. Learn to set your boundaries, and prioritize your responsibilities. Otherwise, you will be constantly pressed for time, and be completely torn between your work and home responsibilities.
Indulge In Self-care: Remember to look after yourself. Make time to eat right. Get your sleep. Set aside some time for workout. Take a few moments to sit in silence, and sip your tea. Make time for yourself, and make self-care your top priority.
Take Frequent Breaks: Take small but frequent breaks. Get up and move around for 5 minutes, every half an hour. Stretch your legs and your shoulder muscles. Sitting still for long hours can lead to sore muscles and stiff joint. Use your break wisely. Grab a bite or listen to your favorite song or pull out the yoga mat, and try out some elementary stretches.
For Those Who Work With Children Around
Working with Younger Children: Let your team members know that you have a baby around you, and prepare them for the background noise that may arise due to the baby playing, laughing or crying. Use their nap times very, very efficiently. Speak to your seniors at work for a modified work schedule that works well for both you and them.
Working with Older Children: If you child is slightly older, share some of the responsibilities with them. Set them up with clear, simple, easy-to-follow instructions. You can train them to do simple things like warm the food, feed the pet or to do their homework on their own. This way, it will be easier for the both of you.
Take Care of Their Emotional Needs: You are aware of your work responsibilities, not them. You are running the corporate rat race, not them. So, do not take out your frustrations on them. Do not abandon them emotionally when they need you. Instead, set some time aside when you and your children can bond together, like maybe, play a video game, watch a movie together or share a meal.
One Additional Tip:
Stay Informed Not Overwhelmed: There is no shying away from the impact that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on our lives, and on the economy. During times like these, if you have a job, do your best. Stay informed about what is happening but do not get overwhelmed. Take care of your mental and emotional health, and surround yourself with colleagues and friends who spread hope and optimism.
The Conclusion
Everything has its positives and negatives, and the same hold true for the pandemic, the lockdown, and the work from home scenario. If you can keep yourself disciplined and balanced, the work from home situation may turn out to be beneficial for you. You can now work in your jammies, from the comfort of your home, and at an hour that suits you the best. Isn’t that’s what you’d always wanted? An opportunity to work with your pet at your feet, and the family in the background? Think of the long commutes to work that you can now avoid, and the amount of time and money that you can save in the process. So, with the help of our tips, make the most of your work from home situation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Stay home and stay safe!
