SEPARATING WORK FROM HOME

 Few can deny the frustrations associated with running a household, business, or career while at home.  When living with others or raising children, the work-life balance can easily become challenged.  It can feel downright impossible.  I listen to the constant chatter around this topic and read the myriad of social media and LinkedIn posts on the many opinions and variables.  Recently, people en masse were introduced to the work-from-home option for the first time.  Employers are changing their minds about what they are allowing.  Current data suggests 40% of employers are allowing some form of work-from-home opportunities.  

Although I had worked from home about thirty-five years ago, in 2020 I was one of those people having huge adjustment issues.  It had been a long time since I had to think about whether I should take a break to flip the laundry or take out dinner to start prepping the evening meal.  I want to work uninterrupted.  I like to work.  I don't like to think about coordinating domestic responsibilities during the work day.  After all, when I was in my employer's office building, I didn't concern myself with such tasks.  

I recognized I needed to set up a separate space away from other family members.  I also knew my chair and desk had to be a comfortable fit.  I needed a few work tools such as a stapler, pens, pads, and a calendar like I had been accustomed to in the usual work mode.  I also realized I liked those personal things like my pictures, thank you note cards, and orchids within easy reach and view.  I am your traditional worker.  Surely, the cat sleeping on my desk is a change from my norm.  Being able to get up to go to the bathroom is still something I wrestle with as I try to fit in one more call, text, or email while my leg shakes up and down.  TMI - right.  I know I do not stand alone in pulling myself away from my work.  In fact, many workers worked longer hours while working from home even though they no longer had the commute.  
How you separate the work/home climate and produce and maintain balance is a topic of conversation worthy of jotting down 3 to 10 primary objectives.  Find a routine.  Routine keeps us balanced.  Routine provides a purpose for the day and allows us to focus on a goal or outcome.  I also recognize the importance of setting a time to start and end my day.  I live with people and have to keep their needs and work schedules in focus.  For instance:  I chose to wake up and start my day before my spouse.  This allows me time to ease into the day.  If I have outside appointments, I avoid rushing out the door and can focus on my plans for the day.  I am saving about an hour a day by not commuting to an office.  Thus, having an extra 5 hours per week reduces my stress level, and leaves me more energetic to enjoy my weekend.