The COVID-19 pandemic has pushed many of us, especially young working adults, to work from home. We have now come to view this as the ‘new normal’.
From lounging in front of the television to starting our own YouTube channel when not in our home workspace, this work arrangement may sound like a dream come true for most of us.
However, it is not without its struggles. Here are some of the main challenges that you may face when working from home and what you can do to overcome them.
Lack of self-discipline
One of the many advantages of working from home is that it offers flexible working hours.
However, it can be a struggle to maintain a work schedule. Some may either be too stressed from overworking or not productive at all. This may mean many are eager to return to the office.
One of the ways to overcome this is to create a work routine at home. It may seem difficult to stick to it initially, but you will get used to it eventually.
Endless distractions
Whether it is your family members, pets, chores, or entertainment, you are bound to face endless distractions when working from home.
To deal with this, try to create a space at home that is meant for you to work and set boundaries with your family members by informing them not to disturb you during a certain time period.
Communication issues
Communication is bound to be an issue when you are working from home.
Given that you are used to working with your colleagues face-to-face, you are bound to feel worried about making any important work decision without consulting them.
In this case, the only real solution is to communicate via email, group chat, or video conferencing as much as possible to clarify any misunderstandings, as well as to be proactive during virtual meetings.
However, be mindful of your colleagues’ working hours, so check if they are available for discussions.
Technology-related issues
Nowadays, most offices are equipped with modern technology and infrastructure that make overall work possible, but unfortunately, most homes are not.
Among the common tech issues at home include slow Internet connection, outdated software programs, and ill-equipped workspaces.
You might even be required to master unfamiliar apps that are necessary for remote work, and this can be troublesome if time is not on your side.
Thus, to overcome this challenge, invest in fewer apps and gadgets for work that you are familiar with.
Once you are comfortable with those, you can try out advanced gadgets, software, or apps that you feel can make your work more effective.
This is a weekly column by SarawakYES! – an initiative driven by Faradale Media-M Sdn Bhd and supported by Angkatan Zaman Mansang (AZAM) Sarawak – to provide advice and stories on the topics of education and careers to support Sarawakians seeking to achieve their dreams. Join us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
First published in the Borneo Post online on 16th May 2020: https://bit.ly/3fXZYoC
