We are living in a worrisome time of uncertainty right now! It’s okay to feel frustrated, uneasy, worried, angry, and emotionally drained. For many people, shifting your daily schedules so suddenly can be challenging.
I know because I am making the same big shifts in how I work with clients right now. Therefore, I wanted to shed some light on how couples can transition to being home from work. Additionally, couples can learn how to maneuver common challenges like setting boundaries and supporting each other at home. We’ll share some tips on working from home with your partner.
Give each other space
If you both need to work from home, designate a space in your home. For the time being, you should both have a space that you can make your own. Will there be clutter in this space? Yes! Will it be in your way? Most likely. However, this will not be permanent!
If you don’t have a designated space at home, try to work at a table or desk. Otherwise, working from your bed or couch can lead to back pain and probably falling back asleep.
Many people are used to separating home from work. However, these two are now very much blended. Research shows that a tidy home or workspace can help you de-stress and focus. Therefore, try to create some sort of organization within your space at home. Even stacking up your papers at the end of the workday can help.
Schedules
It can be easy to turn on Netflix or a movie for some background noise. However, over time, you may find it challenging to concentrate if this is something new to you. Instead, try putting on some music and working in 20-30-minute increments. Then, check your phone, grab a snack, or turn on the TV.
For many people, working from home does not mean a staycation. Instead, it means getting work done in a different environment and adjusting quickly. Be sure you are still waking up at a normal time. Also, continue eating breakfast, lunch, and dinner and getting in some exercise. Perhaps you can schedule a “lunch date” with your partner before returning to your workspace!
If you have children, you may have suddenly become your child’s new teacher. In that case, ask their school for resources and tips. Children thrive with consistency and structure. Therefore, finding ways to implement both throughout your days will be most helpful.
Communicate
If this is your first time sharing a work environment, it’s essential to share your expectations for the day. Perhaps one partner usually gets help from coworkers or shares random things throughout the day. Meanwhile, the other partner may work independently and stay focused. As a result, these differences can quickly lead to some annoyances.
Be sure to share the following with your partner:
- What is your preferred method of working?
- Listening to music, working with sunlight, eating while you work
- What do you find distracting?
- How can I help you focus?
- What is not working for you and why?
- What do you find that energizes you during the day?
- How will we make sure our kids are staying focused on their work as well?
- Do you take breaks during work?
- What do they look like? (i.e. a walk outside, stretching, snacking, deep breathing)
- How do you handle stress at work?
Remember, this is a new situation for everyone. Additionally, your partner will most likely work differently from you. Therefore, find a way to understand each other and take it one day at a time. Be safe and let me know what is and what is not working for you!
By Priscilla Rodriguez, M.S., LMFT
Priscilla specializes in working with couples and helping them learn ways to communicate in order for them to feel comfortable and supported during tough conversations. Priscilla understands that transitions can lead to stress and it is in these moments that strategic relationship skills are needed to implement. Feel free to look at the online services offered through Modern Wellness Counseling and check out the client portal to conveniently schedule your next appointment.
