Like many businesses, we are adapting to new ways of working, with Opalbond’s main priority being to help protect the health and safety of our staff, customers and suppliers. After 20+ years working only from an office, I’ve been getting to grips with life working from home, here are my top 5 takeaways now I’m well into week 2.
- Keep to a routine
I find it really helps to have a routine so I can separate my time working from my home life. For me, that’s meant starting and finishing work at much the same time as if I were in the office, and putting away my work equipment at the end of the day. I don’t have my usual commute, but I’ve tried to replicate this by taking a walk round the garden before and after ‘work’ which helps me transition mentally from one space to another.
- Exercise
In the UK, we are still able to get out once a day for exercise. It’s strange times when this feels like an absolute luxury! Time spent running or taking a dip in the River Cam are really helping me maintain focus and look after myself, plus with Spring well and truly arrived, it’s giving me a regular boost of vitamin D. I’ve also joined in a few online high intensity interval training sessions and managed a cheeky bounce or two on the trampoline.
- Eat well
Week 1 involved far too many biscuits for my own good but I’m back on the straight and narrow with fresh fruit within reach rather than milk chocolate hobnobs. I’ve enjoyed cooking more with my family and trying to find creative ways to use the ingredients we have rather than dashing out to the shops too frequently to buy more.
- Supplement your diet
I’m certainly not the only one taking supplements right now and Opalbond is seeing plenty of customer enquiries as consumers look to boost their wellbeing and immunity. Having a supplement as part of my routine is also encouraging me to drink something other than tea – I’ve certainly been surprised by the amount of tea bags we’re getting through so am trying to increase my water intake too.
- Chat often
Something I’ve really enjoyed is video conferencing my colleagues. Daily II o’clock coffees with co-workers and 3 o’clock Friday teas are set to become regular highlights for me. It’s nice to know the non-work related banter can continue – despite being physically separated, I’m happy to report that socially we’re as communicative as ever!