How to Work From Home, If You’ve Not Done So Before
By Steven W. Giovinco, Recover Reputation
For some, working at home due to covid-19 may initially seem like a diversion; for others, it could feel like solitary confinement (it’s somewhere in between, hopefully).
Reprieved from the daily commute grind and meetings, working on your own can feel lonely and strange (after all, if you wanted to work by yourself, you probably already would have done so).
As someone who made the transition years ago from “9-to-5” to a-work-at-home-entrepreneur, here are ways to stay productive and sane during this time of flux.
Take breaks
Build in goof-off time (but not too much). Take breaks; go for a walk, rest. Remember, it’s like the office, but not in ways we might not be aware of. Replace reaching out to a cubicle mate for a chat with texting a friend; instead of lunching with a colleague, eat together via Facetime/Zoom/Facebook Live. Read or watch something fun online as a break.
Use a VPN
Stay safe online by using a VPN while working at home. Virtual Private Network (VPN) can give remote access to office files, but importantly, it protects your home computer from potential cyber attacks. It helps keep your banking, insurance, Social Security number, and other vital information private and safe. Update or get good virus protection too for all devices.
Stay Focused
We all like distractions — especially now. It might be easy to drift to the refrigerator or watch the news/Netflix, but try to stay focused. If you have trouble doing so, try keeping a timer and dedicate thirty minutes to work without a break and then pause for five or ten minutes for a brief recharge.
Know Your Productivity Times
It may turn out that your most productive time is midnight in your bathrobe or at 4am with a laptop in bed. Try to find your personal flow in this new business-work environment because it will probably change from what you knew before.
Get Connected
Connect with others through the phone, texts and online chats. Working alone can take its toll emotionally so learn to be social in new ways.
Let Go of Preconceived Ideas
It’s going to take a while to get used to a new way of working so let go of self judgement and preconceived notions. Don’t force the old way of doing things; be open to new approaches. Surprise yourself.
It’s Emotionally Draining
I admit it: it can be emotionally draining in this new environment. What if [X] doesn/t/does happen? Am I doing enough? Shouldn’t I be working more? Will I get the virus? Try not to drive yourself crazy by living in the future or the past. That’s why taking fun breaks can help.
