How to balance Confinement and Remote Work ?
Author : ROMAN3D,
CREATIVITY
Indeed, confinement is back! And you are aware that France is once again confined and many people find themselves working remotely, for those who are not at their workplace or on partial unemployment. Thus, for many of us, this period is particularly difficult to manage. So, you sometimes have to juggle between professional, family, and personal life. That’s why we offer you some advice to manage this period.
So, don’t give in to panic and manage your anxiety …
Thus, faced with this confinement, we are not all equal. Indeed, this situation can be a source of stress and anxiety. Firstly, it is true that this period is delicate for young adults, children, teenagers, but also for the elderly. Secondly, the current health situation is very anxiety-inducing. Especially for people who have to face isolation. But, we must be able to not give up and trust ourselves while keeping busy with simple things: meditation, relaxation breaks, or writing a confinement journal. Moreover, these activities can allow us to escape and better live through this period.
Therefore, if you feel stressed, avoid watching too much anxiety-inducing news that can be found on continuous news channels. It’s important to stay informed, but not to be overwhelmed by negative information.
In conclusion, to better manage this period, don’t forget to exercise and get some fresh air. And remember, you are allowed one hour to leave your home to get some air, provided you stay within 1 km of your home. You can run, or simply take a walk and see something other than your home. Indeed, this is essential for maintaining good health.
How to organize your Remote Work day ?
First of all, it is highly recommended to have a dedicated workspace at home. Avoid working on your bed or in a place unsuitable for work. A table, a comfortable chair, and your computer are essential to create a suitable work environment.
Next, it is advisable to maintain your usual routine. Are you used to taking a shower in the morning? Continue to do so, along with your rituals: breakfast, choosing your outfit, a good coffee…
Finally, respect your usual hours that you have in your office. Respect working days: don’t work if it’s a public holiday or if it’s the weekend. Remote work doesn’t change your hours!
Moreover, at noon, keep the same lunch break time as when you were in your company: if you were used to taking an hour break, keep this duration. So, take a real lunch break with a healthy meal to stay in good shape during confinement. And, during the day, don’t forget your usual breaks to have a coffee, move around, or call your loved ones.
For example, on Teams, you can set a background to preserve your private space from your colleagues. No more embarrassment about your home’s appearance.
And, stay in touch with your colleagues !
Then, communication is essential. It will allow you to maintain good coordination with your teams. For example, you can inform your colleagues of your daily schedule and let them know when you are available. Email, instant messaging, communication tools: there are many at your disposal to keep in touch with your colleagues, and don’t forget to check in on them. Stay supportive and attentive to your colleagues. Some of your colleagues may feel lonely or have trouble organizing themselves; it’s important to reassure them, understand them, and help them.
Nothing prevents you from setting up an online ‘after-work’ gathering after work.
Preserve your work-life balance while working remotely …
So, with remote work for many people, it’s difficult to manage work life and personal life. Especially respecting the time dedicated to work and the time dedicated to family. Thus, at the end of the day, just like at the office, turn off your computer and change activities to switch to your private sphere. Moreover, don’t hesitate to organize your family life: give your work hours to your loved ones so they don’t disturb you during the hours you dedicate to your company.
On the other hand, remote work is mandatory …
Sanctions will likely be put in place for reluctant companies. While remote work has been set as the rule during this lockdown, it’s struggling to be implemented. On the other hand, many companies favor work in the office rather than remote work. Then, the Minister of Labor promised initial sanctions starting next week for companies that refuse to generalize it.
Because the government had to raise its voice, as remote work is mandatory and not an option for companies. Thus, in the coming days, the Ministry of Labor will raise awareness among large French groups on this issue. Of course, remote work is implemented only for workers who are able to do so. Nevertheless, some jobs cannot be done remotely. But these are the only ones authorized to go to their workplace.
