It is safe to say that social distancing will remain a reality for the foreseeable future. Working from home is something new for many of us. I for one find it great! Here is how I make the most of the situation.
Mornings
Every day starts with positives. I wake up leisurely, unencumbered with the thoughts of impending tasks. With their school closed the kids sleep-in as much as they want. Not having to get myself ready for work means that I can devote time to other thinks. These include making a proper healthy breakfast. The commute to work used to take loads of time, which is now saved. Staying at home also takes away much of the stress and grid of office. I sometimes answer my work emails while having breakfast in bed.
Workplace comforts
It is lovely to work from home where every comfort is within an arm’s reach. I feel that working in my PJs or shorts has made me more efficient. For the occasional video conference I simply throw on a blazer on top of my t-shirt. I make some coffee or step out on the balcony whenever I need a break. With fewer cars in the streets the air feels much cleaner. Not being exposed to as much dust and pollution, my skin feels nicer.
Reinventing myself
Staying in has let me de-stress. I spend more time on my hobbies and likes. I have had time to make a workout routine and do yoga. The beginnings of a small kitchen garden are starting to take shape. This one was on the drawing board for the longest time. I plan to diversify into other activities. I’ve learnt some new recipes. Now I bake my own bread instead of buying it. I’m thinking about starting a YouTube channel featuring my kids.
More cuddles
Working parents are invariably forced to juggle work and family. One of the biggest perks for me is the extra time, love and laughter with my family. As a working mom I missed many milestones with my children. This also caused some guilt. Now I spend a lot more time with the kids. We play and bond and learn all the time. I’m also giving them an opportunity to see what mom does when she’s at work. I hope to make them understand responsibility, and inspire them to be independent. Not having to hire a nanny is an added bonus. Someday I’ll save-up enough to send money online to send them to good colleges abroad.
Marital bonds
I can now find time to make up for all the missed dates with my husband. Because our lifestyle is not so hectic anymore, we are both in a more relaxed state of mind. As we both work from home it feels almost like we are coworkers. We have come to understand each other’s work lives better. Sometimes we are able to help out one another with tips and suggestions on work-related matters. We are actively being there for each other, and it’s a great feeling. This has deepened our understanding of each other. We are starting to feel like a team juggling household chores and work. We’re both also starting to realize the importance of mental health and mindfulness.
Final thoughts
This is no doubt an uncertain time. While the circumstances have created new challenges, they have also given me the time to pause, look back to my past, and reflect on my lifestyle. In some ways introspection has changed my priorities and the way I make decisions. Preserving the health of my family, our love and friendships is important. Life is a journey, and I want to achieve my goals every day.
About the author:
Tricia Lee is a contributing writer at Sparkwebs LLC, a Digital and Content Marketing Agency. When she’s not writing, she loves to travel, dance, and read books.