Covid-19 continues to affect us all, Hannah Meads offers some tips on how to win at homeworking
Working from home has its positives and its negatives. Now, as many of us have been doing so for an extended period, we may begin feeling a little overwhelmed or fed up with the concept, which is unlikely to change any time soon.
If like me, you have found working from home difficult at times, here are my top three tips that may help to feel more comfortable and, hopefully, happier!
1. Make a dedicated workspace: For me, this was key. Yes, working from your bed or sofa may have been glorious to begin with; however, this is not a long-term solution. Living in a one-bedroom flat brought additional challenges, with space and co-working alongside my partner, but a visit to Ikea for a new table was a real game-changer. Contact your company if you have any concerns or specific requirements, as it is likely they will be able to help somehow.
2. Set boundaries: Setting boundaries with yourself and other members of your household will really help. For example, making sure you are not squeezing in call after call, Zoom after Zoom, just because you can. Take regular breaks and give yourself time away from the screen. It is a lot easier to stay logged on when your home is your office, so try to switch off when the workday is over – even if that means putting your laptop and phone away and out of sight.
Furthermore, we all recognise it can be difficult if you are sharing your workspace with others. Something as simple as sharing each other’s schedules, so you are able to work around each other’s needs, could make a huge difference.
3. Stay connected: In the current climate, it is understandable that you may be feeling disconnected and isolated. Your manager and colleagues cannot read your mind, so it is really important they are aware of how you’re feeling so they can help – and there’s a good chance they might be feeling the same way. Human interaction is so important, so make time to socialise in any way you can or feel comfortable doing. Pick up the phone, schedule a video call, or if possible, get together in person (following the latest social distancing guidelines of course). Ask how others are and whether there are ways you can help support each other.
Remember, this is not a normal situation, therefore things will not feel normal; and it is understandable we are all a bit mentally and physically exhausted by coronavirus and the complications it brings. Nevertheless, by being kind to yourself and others, combined with making some small changes to create a comfortable working environment, may help you feel happier.
Hannah Meads is broker at Miller Insurance