We may have managed to work out schedules and agreements with our spouses/partners/roommates and/or children. If you haven't yet figured this out, here are a few tips for the humans in your new workplace.
Working with your Spouse/Partner
Here it is important to stake out your separate spaces. If you live and work in a small space, then carve out your own separate spots on different chairs, and hopefully different tables. If you live together in a very small space, then consider one working on the eating area table, and one working from a couch or chair. Either way, you need your separate space.You will also need to respect each other's time, space, and work. This means that you need to recognize that you are each at work, and do not interfere or comment on the work unless asked. Do not be a distraction. This is not the time to ask your spouse to do housework, or anything else you would not do at work. Keep your work time for work, and your personal time for personal time.
Make jokes, and have some fun at breaks. The other day, my husband and I jokingly greeted each other as though we were at work with "Hi! How are you? So good to see you again. I have to run, but hopefully we can find time for coffee or lunch together soon"! This helped lighten the mood, since we do actually miss being around our colleagues, and we are in the middle of a stressful situation.
Working with Kids
I would not presume to tell anyone how to raise their kids, as my own have only had fur, four legs, and a tail. Instead, I will provide you with some links, and ask that you share any tips or links that you have found helpful in the comments below.- The triple duty: Working Parenting, and Teaching from home
- Working at home with a toddler
Working with Pets
Currently, social media is full of humourous posts about working at home with pets. Some love the fact that their humans are at home now, as there is more opportunity for walks, playing, laps, and treats. Others are not so sure this is a good idea, since it is interfering with their naps. You may need to help your pets establish some ground rules, and it is not as simple as telling them and working out a contract. Here are some tips:- For dogs: Walks are important, and usually around 30 minutes. Go for one before work, during your lunch break, and after work. Give them something to eat, or play with, during your conference calls. You may need to keep them in a separate room, or with a house-mate when you have such calls.
- For cats: Set up a spot for your cat that involves comfort and sunshine (if at all possible). The space should not be your keyboard, as that will make work impossible. Similar to dogs, cats need play time and attention, so schedule those into the morning, at lunch time or during a coffee break, etc. Really, though, cats sleep around 16-18 hours per day, so they are somewhat easier in terms of the hours they spend being active.
Now, it may be that your pet acts differently for a few days as you both adjust to the new routine. Remember, they may have had the run of the house for 8-10 hours per day in the past, and now you are present most of the day. Give yourself and your pets time to adjust.
Final Note
Remember that you and your other humans, as well as the dogs, cats, and other pets, all need time to adjust. It will take time, but you will get there. Be patient, kind, and keep a plan. However, if the plan is not working, then be prepared to adjust it. So, be flexible too.If you have any further tips, tricks, or comments, please feel free to leave them below.
Be well, stay safe, and look after yourselves!
D. E. Crone-Todd
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