Tips Managing Working from Home

Below are some tips managing working from home.  These strategies may help you create a sense of structure, routine, consistency, and perhaps a boost in your emotional health.  Prior to the COVID-19 Virus, home was where we would spend time with our family members.  For many of us it has recently become our workplace, the classroom, and maybe even the gym.

It may be helpful to dedicate a space in your home to create a makeshift work environment for the time being.  Life transitions and changes continue to transform how we manage our lives a little more each week.

Ask yourself the following questions:

How am I managing the transition to working at home?
How am I adjusting to not socializing with friends and co-workers?
How am I feeling now that I cannot attend classes or go to gym?

Tips for Managing Working from Home

1. Dedicated Workspace.
   If you do not have a separate office, choose to work in an area where there is natural light and a comfortable chair.  Consider turning off distractions like television and consider listening to relaxing music.
2. Think Details.
   Try to establish a workspace like you had at your office.  The space may be smaller, but you will need to have access to the basics to perform your job. Think about bringing home your favorite pen or coffee mug.  You can also add some live plants to your workspace.
3. Outline Your Work Hours
   You may want to write on a whiteboard or paper your start time, lunch time, break, and end time.  This will help family members learn your new schedule.  It is helpful to limit the amount of interruptions in the day.  Consider writing down goals and tasks that you want to complete each day.
4. Familiar Routine.
   Finally, consider your daily wardrobe. It is hard to take work seriously in pajamas, but you do not necessarily have to wear a suit either. Try throwing on your usual work shirt and comfortable pants. This may help you to transition into a mindset to focus on productivity and timelines.

If you need someone to talk to during this uncertain time it may be helpful to reach out for professional counseling.  Telehealth Counseling is available from the comfort of your home. Telehealth Counseling may be approved by your health insurance or employee assistance company.

If you have questions related to your counseling benefits, please feel free to contact our office at 386-449-8600 or by Email: Info@OceanVistaCounsel.com.

To learn more about the Online Telehealth Counseling Program please click here.

To learn more about COVID-19, please visit the Centers for Disease Control.

This blog was prepared by Emilia DaSilva, LMHC.