When WFH may feel like WTH
I’ve been working from home for about 17 years. I know this crisis is affecting so many workers out there who are either not used to it or do not have a set-up for it. Either way, it’s been a sudden and challenging change. My tips:
1) Set yourself up to work well.
Unlike many, I have a designated area to work. Wherever you find yourself, make sure it’s physically uncluttered as much as possible. With my daughter home from school, I’ve even had to hide her stuff so I can’t see it in my visual space. (We’ll deal with it later!) And if you feel like getting out of your PJ’s or loungewear helps you be more productive, do that. When I first started WFH, I used to get dressed as if I was going to work, heels and all! Sounds odd but it helped — whatever works for you, right now.
2) Schedule everything and stick to your calendar.
I live and breathe by my calendar. I schedule everything in, even breaks, dog walks, and meditation. I use Google calendar and color code everything too. This way I can stay focused if I have a realistic plan for my day. (I’ve heard others suggest to still take lunch breaks away from your desk. For me however, I prefer to plow through and keep my focus. It works for me.)
3) Set aside the house chores for a specially designated time, and make a list for later.
I’ve heard (especially for moms) one of the biggest challenges is not being tempted to do house chores. Sometimes I’ll throw a load of laundry in at lunchtime but save the folding for the evening. If you can, keep a list for yourself throughout the day to tackle later. I use Evernote that syncs up with all my devices. Just getting it out of my head and setting it aside for later helps me keep my focus.
4) Give yourself a break.
That said, this is going to be different and difficult no matter what. I’ve been doing this for 17 years, but the added stress and anxiety of the situation and having to homeschool my daughter has definitely affected my productivity. If you run a team, be gracious. If you work with vendors, be compassionate. Understand that working hours could mean after 8pm when the kids are in bed. Step in when and where you can to help. We’re all in this together!
5) Bring the noise.
I have heard from friends who live alone that one of the biggest challenges is the sudden jump from a busy, active work environment to the silence and stillness of home. As opposed to having the news on which can add to your anxiety, maybe try playing a familiar movie on your TV for background noise (and a movie you’ve seen enough times you don’t really have to pay attention to it). TV reruns are great for this too — Sex and the City has been a fun go-to for me through the years.
6) Take your social time online.
Naturally, we’re social animals and not having that outlet can make this time even more difficult. Try to maintain somewhat of a social life by taking it online. Those in the dating world are starting to schedule Facetime “happy hour” dates as something to look forward to at the end of the workday. Some girlfriends and I have a Zoom wine night scheduled for this weekend! Reward yourself off the clock as you normally would.
Many of us are alone without kids or spouses. Do check-ins with friends, family, and colleagues. But also remember that everyone is processing this differently, at different times. If you have a friend or loved one who doesn’t feel like engaging, don’t push it and don’t take it personally. If ever there was a time to release your ego, it’s now.
One last note: when I worked in an office a few years ago, I found that I was getting pulled in so many directions throughout the day that I was not nearly as productive as when working from home. So once you settle into the routine of it, you just may be pleasantly surprised!
Hope this helps! And if you have any questions for me, feel free to comment below or email me: erika @ erikabrechtel .com
Hang in there! xoxo
