For those who can, 2020 has turned into a work from home experience. I’ve been working from home for eight years or so. I was not forced into working from home by my employer or government. My life in a wheelchair and my propensity for serious pressure ulcers, as well as a wonderful employer, sent me to my home office. I’m very comfortable with this experience. The Covid-19 quarantine issue currently on all of our minds, is just business as usual for me. I only miss the small weekend trips to the store and to church.
For those of you who maybe going crazy after just two weeks of this new life, here is one thing I’ve learned.
When you work, sleep, and play in the same place, it can be very easy to to blur the limits of your work day. It’s easy to spend an extra 30 minutes working. After all, that would have been my drive time home. Unfortunately, that 30 minutes can turn into an hour or two in the blink of an eye.
Suddenly, you’re spouse, children, or just your Netflix binge watching, is getting less of your time. All while you are in the best position possible to give them more time. The impact on your relationships with family as well as your time spent in prayer or reflection can be significant. Like a car out of alignment with unbalanced wheels, it won’t take long for problems to arise.
Stay aligned and stay balanced. Everyone in your quarantine environment will be happier. Keeping the kids and your dog quiet during conference calls, well that’s a subject for another day.
The LORD demands accurate scales and balances; he sets the standards for fairness.
Proverbs 16:11 NLT
I am your biggest fan
I’ve thought about you often these past two weeks knowing that this “work from home” experience is your norm. I’m getting into a routine now. But I do find that I start to lose track of time, not just the hours and minutes, but the days. Working at home kind of messes with your head. But there are advantages. I have saved a ton of money on gas! I don’t waste an hour or more a day in the car going to and from work. I get a little extra sleep in the morning. And I don’t have to pack my lunch every night. But I really miss being with my co-workers, asking questions, picking their brains and just talking with them. We are all lucky to have an employer who is flexible about work schedules, and we are lucky to be able to continue working in these difficult times. Take care.
The inability to interact directly with co-workers as a group is my greatest loss. It is also an advantage since the absence of chatter helps me focus on my work. But the feeling of being on the outside looking in is a real problem.