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What to Do If You Hate Working from Home During COVID-19
If you’re fortunate, then working from home during the COVID-19 crisis has had some silver linings, such as the elimination of a grossly long commute or the ability to eliminate distractions like noisy coworkers. Those advantages can make a remote setup decently enjoyable. But what if you’re not so lucky and being pushed out of your traditional office has you wincing?
Assuming that there’s no way for you to be out and about for the company based on your specific role, and assuming that you can’t get back to your regular building because of safety protocols decided by higher ups or local governments, first just take a step back. Think about what was happening or what was around you in the office when you did your best work. For instance, maybe you had a more comfortable chair or the ability to look out a window, or maybe you enjoyed the gentle hum of conversation around you.
Next, see if you can try to recreate the office positives in your remote space. This doesn’t have to cost a lot of money, or any at all. For example, displaying a few of your reference books on or near your desk might help you feel like you’re still connected with your company’s resource shelves, while a certain brand of coffee might give you the laid-back feeling of the break room.
