Homelife Worklife Balance

We are living through unprecedented times, navigating uncharted territory as a nation and world. Each day is full of change. The only consistent thing right now is how unpredictable our lives are.

If you’re like me and now working at home with co-workers under the age of 6 or sharing your workspace with a spouse or other family members and relying on Zoom and FaceTime for adult human interaction, to say this is challenging is an understatement. Shelter in place orders are being extended and school will remain online for the remainder of the year in many places. This is “life” for at least another month. I’m attempting to maintain some sense of normalcy and a consistent routine for me and my family.

Here are some tips to help set yourself up for success when working from home and bring some semblance of balance (is that even possible right now!?) to your life:

1. Have a designated work space, reserved only for work.

   It’s hard to feel like you’re not always at work when working from home 100% of the time. Having a physical space to walk away from can help draw a line between the work day and home life. This allows your mind to have the mental break it needs. When weather allows, I move my “office” outside to take advantage of the physical and mental benefits of fresh air and sunshine.

2. Dress in regular clothes.

   Dressing the part and wearing work attire (or at least not lounging in yoga pants ALL day everyday) helps me feel like I’m at work, thus increasing productivity.

3. Pick up the phone instead of relying on email.

   Even a short conversation can keep your spirits lifted and energy levels high. I know my energy drags in the mid-afternoon so I shut down my computer, get some fresh air, and make a few phone calls.

4. Continue to meal plan.

   Not only will this limit mindless snacking but it will help limit grocery store outings. I’m trying to do 7-10 days of meal planning and do one online shopping order per week, or less.

5. Plan “connection” time for you (and your kids too).

   I built in time to FaceTime with friends and family, have virtual coffee dates, and my daughter is making cards, small gifts, and writing letters to drop off in friends’ mailboxes.

6. Check in on news once per day (or less) with reliable resources.

   Perusing social media or websites for hours on end or even frequently every day can make you lose your focus and optimism quickly. Stay informed without overwhelming yourself.

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