We’ve all had to adjust to new ways of working and living and whilst there are increasing numbers of people returning to the workplace, for many working at home is here to stay for the foreseeable future, in some form or another. You’re probably wondering how this introduction is relevant to the topic of this post and it’s this: with both my husband and me working at home it’s meant that we’ve able to welcome a new member to our household and the EG Advisory team – Nigel the miniature dachshund. Thinking about the first few weeks with him has made me realise that he’s brought better structure to our routine, work: life balance, and general enjoyment of life. Of course getting a new puppy (or another animal of course) is just one thing you can do to improve your working from home from life. But there’s more.
Stick to a routine
It’s easy for the lines between work and home to become blurred so set yourself a routine and stick to it. Get up at the same time and tempting though it is, try to dress in something other than your pyjamas. And use what was your commuting time to do something productive – take the dog for a walk, excercise, or read the news for example.
Don’t be tempted to carry on, or return to the laptop later. When the working day has finished that’s it until tomorrow. Focus on your home life as it’s your time now.
Have a dedicated workspace
If possible, try to find a space that’s your dedicated place to work, away from distractions and where you can have everything to hand that you need. I appreciate not everyone has space to have a home office and so perhaps you have to be creative. With that in mind I completely get that not everyone is enjoying working from home and for some that will be down to working space.
Comfort is important and so take some time to set up your workspace properly. There is some useful guidance available from the NHS.
Take a break
It’s easy to feel like you have to be available all the time but presenteeism at the expense of your mental health is bad. Take a break from the screen and take a proper meal break. Getting away from the desk for a while, even better getting outside and stretching your legs, will help you concentrate and reinvigorate you.
Maintain your connections with others
It could be easy to become isolated but there are many ways to stay in touch with others, and not just colleagues. We’re all becoming quite adept at using Zoom, or other such platforms, so schedule a call and check in with others. Seeing loved ones and just taking time to ask how they are is good for you and them.
And how about socialising virtually? Lockdown may be over but we are still spending more time at home and may have friends and family who are in quarantine of isolating. During lockdown, I ran a fortnightly pub quiz and there are many such activities still taking place. Of course, socialising doesn’t have to be virtual so if you can, get out and meet people (subject to social distancing guidelines of course). Our household has certainly benefited from meeting people on our daily dog walks.
Set household boundaries
Working from home provides better flexibility but it may feel to other household members that you’re always available or even on holiday. Discuss what your needs are and remind others that you have work to do – even share your schedule and make it clear that when you’re working day is done you are truly “at home” with family members.
In it for the long term?
If homeworking is here to stay for you, think about what you need to make life better. Talk to your employer and see what they can offer by way of equipment or software for example.
Look after yourself
Be kind to yourself – you deserve it. Be realistic about your circumstances and what you can achieve and consciously take time to reward yourself for a job well done. Most importantly, take steps that will support your mental health and well-being. For you it may not be getting your very own Nigel, but we all have something we deserve.