The coronavirus situation has forced the majority of people to work from their homes. This new style, called teleworking, has many benefits, but it still poses many challenges, especially for those trying it for the first time. Teleworking during this period can make you feel like you are overworked. It also comes with the feeling of professional isolation and the interference of both work and personal life.
Pros and cons of teleworking
It has been projected that teleworking can increase job satisfaction for an employee and their commitment to the organization. Research has also projected that it could improve the performances of employees. Teleworking can also decrease workers’ exhaustion and work-related stress due to a reduced commute and more flexible hours. There is no doubt that there is more freedom to work with teleworking and reduce commuting costs.
However, its drawbacks are a cause for concern. They include but are not limited to social and professional isolation, decreased information sharing opportunities, and most importantly, difficulty separating work or studies and personal time. There is more likelihood of workers” burnout with working from home.
During this period, distractions from family members are prone to occur, and avoiding them might be impossible. In some cases, meetings might be held in awkward places like the kitchen or toilet to reduce the chances of being disturbed. A study room or private workroom might just be the best solution to combating this problem. You can learn how to create a study room here.
How do you focus on your work and studies from home?
- Develop a routine
Come up with a routine that defines how your workday will go. Make sure to keep to this schedule each day and not deviate from it. You can also, to make sure you focus well, imitate your regular workday routine. Wake up in the morning and dress as you would do when you are going to work. Visit your private study room and work there, then change into your normal house day wear and do some family activity at the end of your workday routine.
- Exercise your willpower
There is more comfort at home than at the office, so you can find yourself relaxing more than usual. Resist the temptation to do anything other than work or study at the appropriate time. Also, make sure to eat healthily and exercise well.
- Establish guidelines
It would be best if you agreed with your family on some guidelines that would enable you to work efficiently. Discuss topics like times of leisure and work. Always make sure that you keep to the agreed periods and stop work when it is time to do so.
- Talk to your boss
Discuss with your boss the time you are free to work. Due to the pandemic, some bosses might want to overwork you believing that more work can be accomplished. Make sure to set boundaries on your work as it affects your immediate family.
Perhaps, the most important tip is to prioritize your work. Please focus on the most critical work, and do it well. Let your family also enjoy your presence at home.