Work teams around the world are transitioning to alternative work models – many of which involve working from home. With this shift comes challenges to employers and employees alike around maintaining satisfaction, productivity, culture, and support systems.
At Lunaria, we are practicing various strategies and tools to make the most of our days at home. This can look different for every individual based on personal and professional priorities.
We collected some insights from our team members and are excited to share them with you.
Team-Wide
Company culture can not be overstated during this time. We have implemented a couple mechanisms to uphold the values we hold dearly.
- Two virtual standups: We begin and end the work day with 5 minute standup meetings online to facilitate interaction, articulate goals, debrief challenges and offer support.
- Virtual Hangout: Throughout the day, team members are invited to enter a Google Hangout where they can continue their work but with company. Whether it’s just to hear each other breath or discuss our anxieties, this tool enables comradery and collaboration.
Cassie Myers, CEO & Founder
I feed off interactions with other people, so working from home was an adjustment. I reflected on what fills my cup in a “normal” work day and redesign those interactions into my work from home life.
- Tip #1: Schedule things to look forward to outside of work that brings you joy, for me it’s things like painting, eating something special, reconnecting with a friend on the phone, or watching a movie.
- Tip #2: Create a loose schedule for yourself throughout the day that might match your typical work day, for me times to get dressed, make coffee, take mental breaks and read stay largely the same.
Lena Thibeh, BDR
My biggest thing right now is figuring out a balance between business and single mommy-hood. We’re quickly learning to create new routines but also to chill out. If he wants a bit more time on his i-Pad while I get some work done- no biggy!
- Tip #3: Don’t stress the small stuff. Being at home with little ones can be overwhelming, we’re out of our routines and that can feel really different. Play time, crafts and keeping their learning on track is great but also let them lead, even if it means a little extra screen time. Khanacademy.com and teacherspayteachers.com are great resources.
- Tip #4: Be a team with your kids. Working from home has been an emotional and mental transition for me, my five year old is going through the same transition too. We’ve made space for each other to be open and honest about how we’re feeling. Sometimes that means stepping away from work for 10 minutes to just cuddle or dance! Being fully present for him when he needs me.
Kamil Ahmed, Marketing & Communications
Transitioning to work from home as a part time employee, part time student, and full time extrovert has been challenging. I had to ponder the parts of my routine that gave me energy and hope and channel those elements into my new schedule at home.
- Tip #5: My mornings are critical in setting up the rest of my day. Getting dressed as usual, eating a hearty breakfast, and listening to my morning playlist allow me to begin the day with enthusiasm and strength.
- Tip #6: As the marketing guy, screen time is a significant aspect of my role but is not always the best for my mental health. To balance the two, I am practicing planning my information intake and scheduling blocks of time where I am exposed to platforms such as Twitter and Facebook. Otherwise I keep my phone away from my workstation and close all social tabs.
Vanessa Noia, Software Developer
When I’m doing everything in one location, I can sometimes get a little frustrated from being around the same people all the time. In order to prevent this from happening, I try to keep myself calm and focused.
- Tip #7: My housemates and I have a pact that during this period where we are all home that we are not allowed to fight.
- Tip #8: Remembering to eat healthy and well in order to keep focus and productivity up.