Working from Home – Find your Groove
2020 has really been off to a strong start – presenting a lot of changes, adjustments, and “new normal” to our lives. Some of us may find that we are home more often and even working from home. While we all navigate this uncharted territory – it is important to show ourselves compassion and allow ourselves to feel our feelings. With that said – here are some tips and tricks that may help us find our groove while we all spend a little more time at home.
1. Create Normalcy: during this time of change, it feels nice to have parts of our routine stay the same. Whether it is our morning workout, what we eat for breakfast, what time we wake up, what time we have lunch, when we take walking breaks, etc – whatever it is, having just a bit of our “regular” schedule may help us feel more settled with so many other things changing.
2. Take Advantage of Time at Home: some of us typically have a very hectic schedule with little time to squeeze in anything extra. While we are staying home and staying safe, appreciate time with family and friends – time that you may not have had if things were going according to plan. Create new memories and make this extra time at a home a positive and heartwarming experience that you will always remember.
3. Utilize your Resources: with so many resources at our fingertips, it has never been easier to stay in touch with people all around the world. Stay connected to the people in your life through video chats, social media, a simple phone call, and the many other ways the internet has allowed us to reach out and catch up.
4. Make a List: sometimes, having a to-do list or schedule helps us stay on track and feel productive. Things included on this list can be long term goals, quick tasks, housework, or gentle reminders (like eat a snack or take some deep breaths). Remember, the extra time we have does not have to be filled only with productive tasks.
5. Manage Expectations: continuing with the last tip – start to appreciate and realize what is realistic to accomplish. Life does not always need a specific agenda. This extra time does not mean you have to check off all the items on previous lists or long-term goals that have been brewing over the past few months. Use this time as an opportunity to be curious. Try doing things that don’t necessarily have a purpose – like coloring just to color.
6. Practice Self Care: self-care looks different for everyone. Whether it’s playing with your pet, watching TV, listening to music, reading a book, taking a bubble bath, or baking your favorite treat – put aside some time to care for yourself.
7. Sleep: despite us not leaving the house that often, we may feel more tired and need the same, if not more, sleep than usual. There is a lot of uncertainty and worry during times like these, which is tiring and straining on our bodies. Be sure to rest more if you need it!
8. Stay Hydrated: when we are out and about, we usually carry a water bottle with us as a friendly reminder to drink and stay hydrated. When at home – keep your water bottle close by or cup of water to maintain that reminder. It is still important to stay hydrated!
9. Try Something New: have you been wanting to learn something new? Check out online resources and start up a new hobby you have been wanting to learn! Knitting? Learning a new language? Get friends and family involved to make it social!
10. Enjoy: last but not least – it may be difficult at times, but try to enjoy yourself. Spread joy, be kind to yourself and others, and we will all get through this together!
