What to Do About Isolation (Including You, Introverts!) & Other WFH Tips
Working from home is something I’ve done for a while now, but first it was a TRANSITION, and not nearly as easy as I thought. And it was my choice!
Right now, of course, it is NOT a choice for many people. So I want to offer some thoughts to help make the transition a bit easier. Everyone's experience is different, so as I often say, take from this what you need.
About Isolation
It is real, y’all. I remember thinking, “I’m an introvert, I’ll be fine!” And then I realized just how isolating working by yourself can be. I was used to being around the energy of my team all day, so it was natural for me to feel all-talked-out by evening.
Not long after I started WFH, I noticed I was feeling drained during the day. Well of course! Energy begets energy, and I was suddenly around none of it. I quickly realized CONNECTION is as vital as food and water, and so intentionally created it. Much of that was via energizing virtual connections with likeminded people (fellow coaches, friends, my coach.)
Whether you consider yourself an introvert, an extrovert, or a mix, recognize it will be important to foster connection during this time. That doesn't mean with just anyone. Think about who energizes you, and make intentional connections with those people.
How? Make as many of your calls as possible video calls. I’m talking work, friends, family, all of it. You may be thinking - ugh - that means I have to put on real clothes and brush my hair? Yes. We’ll get to that.
We also know working in an office isn’t ALL work. Maintain your social connections with video check-ins, via Slack, scheduled coffee breaks, or whatever method sounds fun. Try some different ways and continue with those that are, again, most energizing.
Create Structure
This is enormously important, as it may feel like you can throw all routines out the window. But routine and structure are incredibly important means of feeling productive and engaged.
Some things to include:
Maintain your same sleeping hours (unless those already aren’t working for you.) You can use that extra time not-commuting for self-care: meditate, read, do a little yoga, or sit and have a civilized breakfast!
Exercise. Most classes are moving virtual so you can still access what you need from the internet. I’d argue exercise is as important for mental health as physical. Keep moving!
Be intentional: decide what you want to accomplish in the day and prioritize it first thing.
Take breaks: to get up and move around, connect with others, and to STOP working. Just because you’re home doesn’t mean you’re on at all hours.
Setting a structure was a game changer for me. I even wake up earlier now than I did when I was working in corporate and commuting!
Environment & Limited Distraction
As best you can, create a dedicated space from which to work. Try not to make this your couch. Our bodies and minds recognize and adapt to the space we’re in. So couch-time might lead to sleepiness (just me?) and slacking, not to mention a bad back.
Clear your space of clutter, set up some good lighting and make it as ergonomic as possible.
Do you normally have your TV on all day at work? No? Then why now?
Notice you’re checking your phone or the internet constantly? Set limits for yourself. Use a version of the Pomodoro technique: set your alarm for 30-60 minutes of uninterrupted work time, then take 5-15 minutes of break time.
A major distraction for a lot of at home workers will be that they’re not alone! Suddenly your kids and/or partner are there. ALL. THE. TIME. Depending on the age of your kids, try to set boundaries by communicating when you are working, and when it’s appropriate to interrupt. This goes for your partner, too. Just because you’re home doesn’t mean you need to be available in every moment.
Energy & Wellness
Get showered. Get dressed. Do your hair and put on makeup if it makes you feel good. Put yourself in a professional frame of mind just as you would if you were going into the office. You’ll feel better and be more productive.
Avoid the WFH 15 (like the Freshman 15? Get it?) Recognize where you are blindly going to the fridge and do something different instead. Make a decaf coffee, have a seltzer with lime, have a 1 minute dance party, take a break and chat with a friend instead. This is as great a time as any to create some healthy habits.
Again, find time for movement and exercise. Virtual solutions abound right now. See if your favorite studio is holding sessions virtually. Many are doing so for free on the cheap.
These are things that worked beautifully for me. Everyone is different! I’d love to hear about what’s worked for you! Comment below 👇.
Are you also adjusting to managing from home? Learn more about how to do that successfully here.