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As a result of COVID-19, a whole swath of the work force around the world is homebound. It is not an easy transition for everyone, but a lot of professionals, ranging from astronauts to writers, gave their best tips on isolating and working from home. Below are some great tips on how to adjust to these new circumstances:
Stick To A Routine
Astronaut Scott Kelly lived on the International Space Station for nearly a year. He shared his tips on how to socially isolate with the New York Times, and the first tip he shared was to follow a schedule.
“On the space station, my time was scheduled tightly, from the moment I woke up to when I went to sleep. Sometimes this involved a spacewalk that could last up to eight hours; other times, it involved a five-minute task, like checking on the experimental flowers I was growing in space. You will find maintaining a plan will help you and your family adjust to a different work and home life environment. When I returned to Earth, I missed the structure it provided and found it hard to live without.”
Put On Real Pants
Adam Serwer, a staff writer for The Atlantic offered his advice for people new to working from home on twitter, “When it’s time to work, put on real pants (or whatever bottom garment you would wear to go outside on a workday).”
Stay Far From The Fridge
Susan Orlean, a long-time staff writer for The New Yorker and bestselling author also gave advice on twitter. She tweeted to her followers to ask her anything, she has worked from home for twenty years. One user asked if she keeps away from the fridge, and if she has an eating routine. Orlean tweeted, “I stay far far away from the fridge.”
Install Software To Prevent Distraction
It is much easier to get distracted while at home. You have to impose the structure an office and traditional work-day would yourself. One tool that will help you stay focused as you work at home alone is downloading an app to help you focus and limit your distractions. Freedom or Self-Control are good applications to help avoid browsing social media or watching videos online too much.
Go Outside
Unless you are severely immunocompromised, it is important for your physical and mental health to spend time outside every day. Practice social distancing, but make sure to get some exercise and fresh air as you adjust to this new routine.
