Two weeks ago, my partner, Alex, was informed by his employer that he must work from home until further notice. Initially, I felt a wave of relief wash over me. We were taking social distancing seriously amid the coronavirus outbreak, and it seemed like a wise decision for him to work remotely. However, the novelty of both of us working from home while also managing our four children quickly faded. Our spacious home felt increasingly cramped as the reality of the state-mandated stay-at-home order set in. Suddenly, I was overwhelmed with the barrage of emails from teachers, the challenge of establishing a new routine for the kids, and my job responsibilities. Although working from home is familiar territory for me, I suddenly found myself with five new “co-workers.”
While togetherness is often touted as a source of joy, this period of isolation has forced many of us to reevaluate our priorities. However, for those of us who thrive on structure, the chaos can feel overwhelming, especially when balancing work with childcare. Our new normal quickly turned into a recipe for frustration, and it became evident that we needed to establish some guidelines to maintain our sanity and productivity.
Create a Dedicated Workspace
Let’s be real: not everyone has the luxury of a grand office setup. Alex transformed our bedroom closet into his workspace. Yes, you read that right! He set up a card table and a folding chair, opened the blinds to let in natural light, and got to work. It’s the quietest spot away from the lively living room. I continue to work from my desk in the living room and have established a rule: if the door is closed, the kids know not to disturb Dad, as he could be on an important call.
Set Defined Working Hours
Alex typically works from around seven in the morning until five in the evening, while my hours are more flexible. I’m responsible for managing the kids’ daily schedules, which include schoolwork, chores, and meals. Once the late afternoon hits, it’s time for them to unwind with some screen time, allowing me to focus on my work. We learned that finding hours that suit both of our schedules is crucial for productivity and reducing stress.
Take Regular Breaks
Just like in a traditional office, breaks are essential when working from home. Long stretches in front of a screen can lead to discomfort and decreased wellbeing. Regular exercise is vital for both physical and mental health, especially during stressful times. Make sure to schedule meal breaks and stay hydrated with plenty of coffee! If you’re working alongside a partner, coordinate these breaks to reconnect and recharge. You can even use your phone to set reminders to avoid burnout.
Divide Household Responsibilities
The way we typically manage household chores has shifted dramatically. Taking breaks can also mean tackling some of these chores. I find that doing housework is therapeutic, so I’ve encouraged Alex and the kids to chip in where they can. It’s important to delegate tasks and involve the children, as this can lighten the load and allow you to focus on your work effectively.
Prioritize Self-Care
Just as you might feel the need to shower after being unwell, maintaining personal hygiene during this time is crucial. Freshening up can boost your mood and productivity. While I might not be dressing up every day, I do make it a point to wear clean lounge clothes. I’ve even scheduled my nightly showers with a little self-care routine involving essential oils and soothing music. It’s amazing how a little effort in self-care can make a difference.
The ongoing pandemic presents challenges for everyone, and adjusting to working from home can be a significant transition. If you’re fortunate enough to be in a position to work remotely, it’s essential to create a system that works for your entire family. Remember, your job is important, and it’s okay to set boundaries. After all, when this crisis passes, we still want to be in our jobs and thriving. For more strategies on navigating parenthood during these times, check out this article. Also, if you’re looking for comprehensive information on fertility and family planning, this resource offers valuable insights.
In summary, finding a balance while working from home during a pandemic can be challenging but not impossible. By establishing a dedicated workspace, setting working hours, taking breaks, dividing chores, and prioritizing self-care, you can enhance productivity and maintain a semblance of normalcy in your routine.