Our current situation, which is anything BUT business as usual, brings a new reality for many: teleworking from home. It is completely normal, for managers and workers alike, to feel anxious and a bit overwhelmed at times. You must however accept this new reality… and try to make the best out of it. Following are a few tips to help you adjust to teleworking.
Planning a Productive Day
Reviewing goals and setting them while taking new working conditions into account is truly key. You will probably not have the same concentration level being at home with your kids running around next to your work space or from being in an environment that is not entirely dedicated to work.
That being said, be realistic in planning your day. Take more mini-breaks and make good use of calmer moments in your household. For example, tasks that require more concentration could be spread out over a larger period of time., work earlier in the day while everyone is still asleep, or later at night, when the kids are in bed.
Avoiding Social Isolation While Teleworking
To avoid the anxiety of social isolation anxiety, which inevitably has an impact on your morale and productivity, stick with activities that are part of your work routine, such as having your habitual team meetings and maintain close contact with your work colleagues, either by phone or even better, by video conference.
If you are used to taking a coffee break with some of your colleagues, keep it going! You can also create small groups with those with whom you share some interests (fitness, wine tasting, etc.). This will allow you to chat with your colleagues… and feel supported.
Creating an Ergonomical Tele-Workstation
Although teleworking is often temporary, your home teleworking workstation should not be overlooked. Here is basic yet important advice, in order to avoid developing pain and injury:
1. Switch positions on a regular basis to avoid staying in the same position for a long period of time .
2. Adopt a seated-down position where you can see the entire screen with you head in neutral position.
3. Relax your shoulders and arms and keep your wrists straight.
To try and reduce anxiety and avoid burnout, it is crucial to separate your work life and your home life. This will will avoid feeling that you are always “in work mode”, once your workday is done. Why not make e it a habit to take a walk at the end of every work day (while respecting social distancing rules). By doing this you make a clean break and come back to your home refreshed.
