Hi everyone, wow. What a weird time we’re living in. I know most of us have not lived in a time where quarantine was even a thing or where social distancing meant more than simply wanting to stay in.

I’m here to remind you — this too shall pass. Right now, many of you are working from home (WFH) while others are out of a job waiting for COVID-19 to run its course. My heart goes to you all.

Whether you’re a server relying on tips for income or someone who’s near graduation and unsure of when your commencement ceremony may be, please know we are all in this together, supporting one another during this unsettling time.

One day, we’ll all look back and have this one thing in common, to ponder over, and to reflect on the solidarity this world never knew it needed.

The plethora of emotions you’re feeling right now? It’s a lot, I know and I validate them. A simple “how are you” right now can prompt uncertainty, and that is totally okay.

I’m still trying to grasp how I’m truly feeling, how to cope with not being able to hang out with friends, dine in at restaurants, work out at the gym, etc, but I’m also reminded that ALL OF THIS is for the common good. Public health. I mean, it’s what I studied, so I should be okay with it… right?

I know many employers have shifted to either a hybrid or WFH model even post-quarantine, so I thought I’d share some productivity tips on WFH. I worked from home a bit when I was recovering from surgery earlier this year (wow, so much has happened in 2020 already and it’s only March), so I had a little trial and error run there. It was something I needed to get used to and now slowly getting back into the swing of things.

I like WFH bc it cuts out commute time (and yay to no makeup?). I don’t miss waking up at 6am to be at work by 8am, so that is a huge plus.

I do, however, miss that routine, the socialization aspect of interacting with colleagues, and just being at my desk adorned with photos of my loved ones.

So far, here’s what have worked for me so far and I hope this helps in some way —

Productivity Tip #1: Scheduling

I’ve always been a routine kind of gal. I like sticking to a schedule bc it helps me plan out my day by the hour. See below:

Productivity Tip #2: Make your bed

I never leave my bed unmade. In fact, making my bed sets my tone for the day. It means I’m in “wake up” mode and ready to get things done. I usually put on my AirPods, listen to a quick NPR recap, and then prep and drink my celery juice.

Productivity Tip #3: Change your clothes

If you’re a morning shower type of person, stick to that and wear something other than pjs. I usually brush my teeth and immediately change out of pjs/sweats into leggings and an oversized sweater, hoodie, etc. I also make it a note to wear a sports bra at least bc relaxed boobs just mean I’m ready for bed, so I need a good bra moment. LOL.

Productivity Tip #4: Prep your coffee

Umm, skinny brew anyone? It has been a huge game changer since I made the switch. This specific brand is super yummy (hello French roast!), contains 2x the caffeine AND burns fat, so why not?!

Productivity Tip #5: Separate your workspace from your lounge space

I try not to do any work on the couch bc being on the couch means I’m ready for Netflix. I like to sit either in the living room using our table or I’d go into my room for my desk. My office space isn’t Pinterest-y or anything, but it does the job. I also get a lot of bright light in my room, so that helps boost my energy.

Productivity Tip #6: Take multiple breaks

WFH means being able to make lunch that same afternoon and enjoying it rather than having to plan out your lunches and packing it in Tupperware.

I also like to schedule in lunchtime workouts by going on some of my fav instructors’ IG since they’re usually hosting IG lives that time or simply YouTubing a workout to stream. I also hold myself accountable by inviting friends to join me on Zoom to do it with me, plus it helps to have social interaction. For more tips on staying active during quarantine, I shared a bit on my recent IG post here.

Please note, being home right now CAN be a blessing for those on the fence of starting that side hustle, those looking for self-motivation, or those yearning for change in their morning routine.

Hope these tips help, and always — please feel free to comment with some of your own tips 🙂 I’d love to hear!

PS: Please reach out to me via email, DM, or this post if you ever want to talk. I’m here to listen.

Sending you so much love during this time,

Photos by: Stephanie Rita Photography