Throughout the initial phase of my career, a substantial portion involved the remote execution of client projects. It led me to ponder questions like, “Am I being productive enough?” and “How can I maintain my motivation?” The realm of working from home proved to be more challenging than initially anticipated.
Whether tackling a client’s request for a booking system integration from overseas or managing solitary workspaces, the need to deliver results persisted. Shared offices were an expensive luxury, and the era lacked the affordable solutions we now have, such as WeWork, targeting millennials. In those times, coffee shops emerged as essential sanctuaries, enhancing performance and concentration. Notably, Starbucks, ubiquitous even by a Hindu temple with a lotus pond in Southeast Asia, became a reliable ally.
Fast forward to the present, amid a literal viral pandemic (COVID-19), coffee shops are no longer viable. In regions severely impacted, venturing outside may even be out of the question. Forced to work from home, we now grapple with the challenges remote work presents and seek ways to overcome them.
LACK OF MOTIVATION AND DEPRESSION | A typical work-from-home side effect
For those residing in regions with curfews, the foremost adversary is the lack of motivation, and in extreme cases, depression.
Antidote: PROGRESS
Humans are inherently social beings, reliant on others for motivation. Social needs take a hit during home-quarantine, emphasizing the importance of progress to compensate. Setting higher goals for progress becomes crucial in the absence of regular social interactions.
How to Maintain Progress in the Absence of Social Presence?
Self-discipline emerges as the key, requiring the establishment of new routines during the workday. Here are some tips to enhance performance while working from home:
1. Set Realistic Work from Home Hours:
Prioritize tasks during your most productive hours, be it morning or midnight.
2. Dress for Success:
Adopt the mindset for work by dressing up as if heading to an external workplace. Avoid loungewear to stay ready for unexpected meetings.
3. Focus on the Finish Line:
Amid distractions, always keep the end goal in mind. Even if working late, ensure the completion of the minimum tasks set for the day to avoid feeling behind.
4. Reward Yourself After Each Accomplishment:
In the absence of social outings, find indoor self-rewarding activities. Step out of your comfort zone to truly appreciate your accomplishments.
In conclusion, working from home has become the new norm for many of us. The adjustment to this temporary lifestyle will take time, and incorporating meditation and mindfulness practices can aid in navigating the uncertainties. Remember, we are all in this together, and challenging times offer opportunities for personal growth. Keep up the good work, and embrace the chance to evolve.
Keep on doing the good work and always remember, we are all in this together. You are not alone. Difficult times always create opportunities to grow…
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