I have not worked in my office since February 28th 2020. Over the last 100 days I’ve learned a few things.
Here is the bottom line up front:
1. I need to start the day with clear objectives written down, or I don’t feel like I got anything done that day.
2. Social interaction fuels me, and I feel drained when I don’t get it.
3. Removing the “other” stuff out of my work day, leaves a lot of room for work or other productive projects.
I work as an analyst, so most of my work can be completed anywhere I have an internet connection. This is normally helpful since I travel a lot for my work. Now that my luggage has been put into storage, and air travel is at least a few months away, working from home is my “new normal.” To set the stage, we live in a 600 square foot apartment. Which means we have a kitchen, a couple stools around the counter, a couch in the living room, and a bedroom. The couch is great for lounging, but most Starbucks have better workstation setups than our apartment. Since working in a public place is also not an option, sitting on a stool at the kitchen counter is where we are at. I came up with a standing desk option as well, we will see how long the box holds together!
Teleworking Cons:
1. The single screen laptop is totally frustrating! If I had room, I would purchase an extra monitor. But I’m working on the kitchen counter!
2. Multiple collaboration tools is super confusing. We have three separate systems for teleconferencing, and I am never quite sure which one we are using for a meeting. Last week they really got me when they did the video with one platform and audio with another! I couldn’t hear anything for the first 20 minutes while I figured that out.
3. Talking and drinking coffee while working out an issue via video chat is not the same as being in the room with someone. Let alone if you are meeting up with three or more people.
4. Getting off work does not feel as liberating. I normally work underground, so when the whistle blows I get sunlight and a bike ride as a reward. Now, done for the day means turning off the laptop and putting it in the corner. It is a fast commute, but doesn’t feel the same.
5. I don’t get as many steps in the day. This is probably because the bathroom is significantly closer than when I am at work!
6. I don’t make french toast sticks like the cafeteria does.
Teleworking Pros
1. With personnel distractions eliminated, productivity is waaaay up!
2. I can stay in workout clothes all day with no issues.
3. With no commute I have more time to do the workout routines I want to get done.
4. The cats like me now. Turns out if you spend an extra eight hours a day with them, they start to tolerate you better.
5. I have an office with a bunch of windows now.
6. No more paying for cafeteria food! I have a full kitchen right here!
Some Teleworking PRO Tips
1. Set objectives for your day or week. If your supervisor is not tasking you, take the opportunity to complete personal development or start a pet project that will help the team.
2. Deal with distractions. If your workspace is the kitchen, and the dishes are bothering you. Do the dishes and move on! You will lose more time, thinking about them than doing them.
3. Learn to put your work on pause when appropriate. Now that your getting more done because of less water cooler talk, make the most of it with your family. Take a break and spend 10 minutes an hour with them if possible.
4. Chunk your work sessions. Set a timer for 30 minutes. No distractions, just work for 30, then take 5 minutes to play angry birds or browse social media. The timer will help you get more done in 30 minutes then pretending to read your emails for two hours.
I don’t know how long I will telework, but I want to make the most of this time. So far, I’ve made progress on my degree, biked a lot of miles, and completed a six week exercise plan with some pretty good results. I miss seeing my coworkers, but until we are in the basement together again, I’ll enjoy my furry office partners and the view!
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