Breaking Up the Monotony of COVID-19
The coronavirus has impacted everyone in different ways, but working from home has become the ‘new normal’ for many. Companies are continuing to implement remote-working policies and some are even extending work-from-home policies through the end of the year. While many people are in favor of working from home, others are itching to get back to the office and switch up their now daily routine.
Whether you’re feeling like you’re Bill Murray reliving Groundhog Day or you are happy working from your home, everyone can use some helpful ideas to break up the monotony of life during COVID-19:
Don’t forget to take breaks. It can be difficult to remember to take breaks. Use your calendar to turn meals and breaks into appointments so you get regular reminders. Block time on your calendar for exercise and fresh air – or just time to step away from your workspace.
Use your best connection. A wired network connection is best when working on your computer. When using a wireless connection, consider your distance from the router and obstacles in between that can affect your connection quality.
Minimize distraction and disruption. If possible, aim for a space with minimal distractions (noises or clutter) and disruptions. Even if you like to move around during the day, designate a ‘work base’ where your equipment and materials can remain undisturbed. This will make it easier to find things when you need them and provide a sense of familiarity when you’re working while avoiding any possible distractions. We realize this can be challenging with others home as well during this time.
Set boundaries. It can be a challenge to switch ‘off’ from work when you don’t leave the office – or switch ‘on’ to be ready for your workday when you don’t leave the house. If needed, set clear intentions about work time and home time to avoid burnout or being ‘always on’.
Virtual ‘water cooler’. Make up for missing hallway talk or connecting in the communal kitchen or café by using chat messages or calling your coworkers for a brief chat. Set yourself a reminder to check in regularly. You can even pick a day to schedule a virtual lunch with a coworker or even your whole team. Enjoy all the normal benefits of taking time out of your day to get to know one another and not talk about work.
See what is important. While it’s great to stay in touch, with everyone working from home, you might see an increase in messages. Use the settings available in Teams and Outlook to customize notifications and prioritize conversations to make sure that work related messages are a priority over ‘water cooler’ talk.
Video on (when possible). Being able to speak ‘face-to-face’ with video chats makes for more inclusive meetings and helps you to be present and more engaged in the meeting. Being able to see facial expressions can help you increase your connection with whom you’re speaking with. Body language can also help you understand and convey your messages better as compared to email or instant messages.
Monitor meeting chat. While others may not have a problem speaking up in large group meetings, others may not feel comfortable breaking into the conversation or may be having technical difficulties. Be sure to check the meeting chat often for comments and to ensure everyone is included.
When working from home, don’t forget – you are not alone! Your coworkers are in the same boat as you; do not be afraid to reach out and stay connected with one another.
