Every major event in human history inspires a change in human culture. Whether it’s a war, an invention, or a pandemic, people adapt to new scenarios.
For e.g. the movie industry is contemplating online releases, schools, colleges and universities are embracing virtual learning and businesses that have never considered online meetings are adapting to Zoom and Google Meetings.
The work from home economy has been building speed for a while, and the current coronavirus issue has just sped things up.
By the time we come out on the other side of this crisis, there will be very few things that can’t be done online. And we’ll be left with a population more used to doing everything from home online than ever before.
The home is the new centre of the universe
There’s never been a time when a home wasn’t important, but it’s become the centre of the universe for everyone. Whether people like it or not–and whether businesses like it or not–people have to work from home right now.
For me, my business is a relationship business and hence networking on video with my clients, partners and business collaborators is paramount to getting work done.
For me peace and quiet is the most important requirement of working from home and hence I have allocated myself a workspace in my home – I strongly urge you to do the same!
Set up your home office for remote working
Barring the unique challenges, there are ways to get the start in working from home.
And it all starts with setting up your workspace.
The location of your office within the home is critical, especially if you have kids and family around.
Site your office in the quietest area of the home, well-removed from the most popular family-gathering spots.
Choose a spot with a window if you can – to view the outdoors helps break monotony.
Consider your lighting, seating and desk levels.
Take scheduled breaks as you would in office.
When you’re working from home, pretend you’re at office
It’s tempting to go from your bed to your office and work the day away in your jammies.
Have a shower, dress like you would for work, so that you are motivated and the rest of the family also feel kike you are working.
Set boundaries from the get-go. Explain to your family for instance, “If the door is closed, I’m working.” Or “If I have my headphones on, please do not disturb me”
The beauty of this atypical situation is that while it will take some time for us to get used to it, you are doing your part to ‘flatten the curve,’ and to get life back to normal as soon as possible.