On adjusting to working from home during the lockdown

The lockdown period during COVID-19 came with an unexpected and unplanned working from home set-up for some of us. Although this transition was not a planned event, it is possible to manage it well, through implementing the following:

Structure

It helps to keep a diary, set weekly and daily work goals that are aligned to your work responsibilities.

Time and boundaries

Allocate time for work activities, breaks and knock off time and strive to keep to your allocated time. Separate time for home activities from work activities, avoid doing home chores during "work time" and vice versa. Time-off from work should be strictly adhered to.

Physical Space

In your house have a corner or space on your table where you strive to create a work-like set-up that you work from. If you have an office strive to work from the office everyday.

Negotiating with family members

Many of us share our spaces with family members who also work or study from home. It may therefore be necessary to clarify working schedules, spaces and expectations in order to ensure a conducive working and studying environment for everyone.

Practice self-kindness

Be deliberate about taking breaks and do activities that nourish you i.e. taking short breaks, eating your lunch, drinking water and walking around the house for a few minutes.

Review

At the end of each day review your diary and tick-off what has been achieved in the daily plan and write a plan for the following day.

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Dr Sibu Qhogwana

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