Although we're already several months long in our work from home setup, everything still feels foreign at times. And a lot of times, our coping mechanism fails, edging us close to insanity.
It's not just you -- it's normal to feel that way. And everything will be alright.
For now, let's be creative and hope that this WFH blues will go away. Here's how:
Start your day right
Your morning ritual sets the tone for the day. When you work outside your house, there's a lot built in to help you transition from your warm bed to your workplace-eating breakfast, dressing up, commuting. You've already packed and begun your day by the time you get to work.
It's possible to roll out of bed and into your "office" while you work from home, but it's not advisable. Give yourself a little transition time and a powerful routine to convey to your brain that it's time to function.
There is a reason articles about working from home always suggest you get ready at home like you were going to the office- it's hard to get out of comfort mode when you're wearing sweats and slippers. Try to maintain as much of the usual routine as possible. If you are allowed to go somewhere without restrictions, try taking a short solo stroll outside to replace your ride.
Accept that home will never replicate the office
Even if #WFH promises some fantastic benefits-no, morning rides, homemade lunches, and a chance to wear pajamas all day if you want, it doesn't come without drawbacks. Distractions arise, communicating is more difficult, and family responsibilities will compete for your time.
Start by forgiving yourself that you can't hold the same clip you did at the office. With practice, you might learn new ways to be productive and work from home just as efficiently.
But if it takes time to adapt to the schedule and output isn't exactly where it used to be, that's all right: we're in this together. Research has demonstrated that anxiety affects our decision-making capabilities, so don't forget to plan some self-care.
Hope you remain safe and healthy (and sane) in these crazy times.
We can do it!
Although the present scenario is far from ideal, working at home can be fruitful and even satisfying. Making the most of it by setting a schedule, minimizing disruptions, and prioritizing work-life balance-good skills to practice at any moment, not just during a pandemic.
