Remotely – The New Commute to Work

As of two weeks ago – I became a full-time remote worker because of COVID-19. Though I am used to doing some work remotely, going 100% remote was something that I was not ready for. However – when the chips fall we know how to speed things up and that’s what we did. First tings first, though I had a desk set up, I was used to a stand up desk at work, so mine had to be converted. My husband and I were able to do that with a simple 1×6 that we used to build a platform. We used the space underneath for the laptop and printer to be stored so they were not in the way. A must have is a memory foam stand up mat this is a must have for anyone with a standing desk. I was able to pick one up for about $20.

Second was to increase our internet speeds – I work on a lot of applications that require higher data speeds such as Adobe CC and graphic applications. I don’t really need the higher speeds if I only work sometimes, but I was thankful that Metronet in response to the COVID-19 offers a no obligation 60-day speeed boost which will help out a great deal. I also found a lot of other deals out there that will save us some dollars, such as:

• Apple 90-day Trial for Pro Video Editing Software
• 60 days of Adobe CC
• MS Teams free
• Always Free ZOOM video conferencing software
• 90 day trial of the Pelaton exercise app – you do not have to have a Peloton tread or bike
• Duke Energy Waiving late fees & No disconnects

 Utilizing the resources from these organizations allows us the ability to accomplish our work from home and save some money too.

Third was how to establish a good work at home schedule. It is so much easier to be distracted at home – the first few days were hard. I had to make myself stick to the work time schedule I was used to and not allow distractions like the floor needing mopped or the dishes needing done get in the way. However I did pay attention to when the dog needed out. I figured that would save me time in the long run in preventing an accident. My husband had to adjust too – it was easy to just come in and ask me questions and things but we established a system where I put a post it note on the side of my desk if I was on a call – that way he knew not to come into the bedroom (which is where my office is) so as not to distract me. If we had visitors during the day and I was unable to take a break – the bedroom door was closed until I was. It did take an adjustment period, but everyone was used to it pretty quickly after some guidelines were set. Though my husband is still not fond that we have an 8 AM team video meeting every morning – so he gets to wake up to my whole team:)

All in all we adjusted pretty well – luckily most of what I work on is digital so filing cabinets or storage is not needed. So while I am home I will be taking advantage of this time to offer some project management tips and software reviews since most people will be online in the next few weeks to come. Everybody stay safe – practice social distance – wear gloves when out.