I usually say that I have been in quarantine for almost ten years, that is, since I started my business in 2011. Strangely enough, the Coronavirus and remote work have not affected me much professionally.
Since I have a home office and work remotely, the COVID-19 lockdown was not at all dramatic for me in terms of isolation (I am already used to it, I work alone), nor did it negatively impact my business—in fact, one of my activity areas experienced an increase in sales, specifically online stamp sales.
For most people, being confined at home increases stress, and beyond all the associated problems, it can jeopardize productivity.
Having worked remotely and from home for nearly a decade, I will share my techniques and recommendations for maintaining mental well-being and productivity during this difficult and new period that forces us to adapt to a new reality.
My recommendations for those who have been “forced” to start working from home due to the coronavirus lockdown in Portugal are as follows:
Recommendations for Remote Work:
Adopt the Pomodoro Technique:
The Pomodoro Technique consists of dividing work into 25-minute intervals followed by 5-minute breaks. You can take a longer break of about 30 minutes, for example, every two hours. During this break, you can read a book, go to the balcony/window to get some sunlight (Vitamin D is very important), or do some exercise.
If possible, set up your own office:
If you have a spare room, use it to set up your office. It is important to create a work area at home that feels separate from your living space, meaning you should feel that you are not at home while at your workspace. If you have to work in the living room, for example, try to create a space or corner where you cannot see that you are in the living room; facing a wall could be an option. The living room is meant for leisure and relaxation, which can create conflicting sensations if used as a workspace.
Cancel the noise:
If you have children at home also in lockdown, working can be a nightmare. Try to find a quiet and calm place to work. If that’s not possible, there are noise-canceling headphones—they don’t block 100% of external sound, but they help a lot. I know they are expensive, but in my opinion, they are almost an essential item for anyone working from home.
Take short walks:
Whenever possible, take short walks while maintaining proper social distancing. On one hand, walking helps relax the mind, and on the other, it is beneficial for the body. When I started my activity, I made the mistake of spending hours and hours sitting at the computer. The body notices and complains!
Think positively:
I know it can be a bit difficult to think positively during a lockdown when the coronavirus threatens us, but while at home, try not to dwell on or repeat that you are “tired of being at home” or that you “don’t like being at home.” Instead, try to find the positive side of the situation. Make a list of 10 positive aspects of working from home, and this may help you see things differently—and perhaps even discover new business opportunities or solutions.
The coronavirus and remote work is a sensitive topic. We are all different; for some, working from home may be more difficult than for others. However, we must find practical solutions during this lockdown period to fight COVID-19 and eventually return to our “normal” lives. I believe many of us, after this is over, will continue working from home—and won’t want anything else… I certainly don’t.
If you have coronavirus symptoms such as fever ≥ 38.0ºC, cough, or shortness of breath, call SNS24.