I won’t bother telling you that these are ‘strange and unprecedented times’, because you’ve heard it a thousand times already (including from every company you forgot had your email address). Coronavirus has had a massive impact on the way we live our lives in 2020, and many of us are now having to work and study from home. Here are a few tips to keep you sane during these next few months of WFH:
1. Stick to the schedule
Setting your intentions for each day is a great way to stay motivated and inspired to smash your WFH goals. Create a plan for your day that outlines what needs to be done and when you want it done by. Make sure to break up your work and study with some enjoyable activities for yourself, such as morning yoga or Netflix before bed. This will help you to maintain some structure and routine as well as giving you the satisfaction of ticking items off your to-do list.
2. Separate work from personal
Think of your house as a mullet: business at the front, party at the back. Choose which areas will be used for getting work done, and which will be used for non-work related ‘me-time’. Although comfortable, I personally try not to work from my bed – mainly because I doze off within ten minutes – but also to keep some distance between spaces where I can relax and spaces where I need to focus.
3. Respect your roomies
If you live with roommates or family members, it is important to realise that you are not in this alone. When WFH, consider those around you and be aware of your own presence. If you have to make long conference calls, take it somewhere private or use headphones so you don’t disturb others. If you tend to have your books spread across the kitchen table while you work, pack it up at the end of the day so it feels like a home again. If you’re feeling tense and ‘cabin-fevered’, get some space so your mood doesn’t detriment those around you. Coronavirus impacts everyone in different ways, and everyone is trying to manage as best as they can.
4. Get some fresh air
Good old Coronavirus has closed gyms, cafes, bars and other venues where we go to get out of the house. This has left some of us feeling a bit stuck. Fear not, there are a few things you can still do to get some space. Going for a run or cycle is still on the cards, however, if you’re a slow mover like me then a leisurely stroll around the neighbourhood might be more up your alley. Whatever pace you travel at, try and get some fresh air and exercise each day. Not only will it boost your productivity while WFH, but it will also give you a chance to stay fit and stretch out those muscles after being cooped up inside.
5. Keep smiling
WFH day-in-day-out can feel monotonous and dreary. Try your best to keep your spirits high and stay positive during this time. Remember that this is temporary, and you will probably learn a lot about yourself and build resilience during the next few months. QUT has lots of excellent resources available if you feel like you need extra support during this period, so please don’t hesitate to seek help if you need it!