Practical Advice From a Work-From-Home Expert
By Layne Meyers
Like many others, I had never heard the phrase “social distancing” before mid-March of this year, and I’m not likely to soon forget it. I know that I’m lucky to have the option to work from home, and besides missing my work family, I didn’t think there would be many drawbacks. After all, I’m an introvert with a vast collection of yoga pants, how bad could this be? Turns out, the structure provided by going into the office aided my productivity and without it, I’ve floundered.
So, as I entered week four of social distancing, I reached out to Megan Meyers, a Director of Implementation for Cigna Healthcare (and also my sister-in-law), who has successfully worked from home full time for over five years, for some tips on how she manages to not only survive but thrive in the work from home life.
LM: Megan, help! Since there isn’t an end in sight to our shelter in place, how can I set myself up for success when working from home?
MM:: First off, don’t feel bad. Not everyone is meant to work from home and work from quarantine presents even more challenges. It’s tempting to work from the couch but try creating a designated space you can work from consistently I have a home office, but in smaller spaces a desk or a table can be perfect.
LM: I think having an area that you can close up or leave after the workday is helpful too. Otherwise the days sort of blend together.
MM: Absolutely! Having a clear workspace is essential for the work/life balance. And if you really want to commit, get office supplies. It may take a little longer during this shelter in place, but places are still delivering. For me a second monitor and a mouse is a must!
LM: OK, I’ll do some online supply shopping tonight. What else?
MM: When I can, I block out time for lunch. It’s too easy to work through lunch when you’re working from home. You may save money by not eating out as much, but it’s important to still give yourself a brain break like you would in your office.
LM: That’s a good lesson whether you work at home or not!
MM: It’s a must for me. And speaking of giving yourself a break, be sure you move! It’s easy to sit in one spot all day. I like to power walk around the house and tidy up as I go. Two birds, one stone. And last but not least, stay connected. Pick up the phone even when an email may be quicker. And don’t be all business all the time. Check-in with your coworkers – What are they having for lunch? What’s on their Netflix binge-watch list? Working from home can feel isolating, so it’s important to try to counteract that.
LM: I’ve noticed that too. Lately, the first 15 minutes of our internal calls have been catching up with each other.
MM: Yes, it’s important to still talk to people about the little things, especially during work from quarantine.
A big thanks to Megan for her insights. I’m looking forward to implementing these myself as I adjust to this new normal.