WORKING FROM HOME…NOW WHAT?
WORKING FROM HOME…NOW WHAT?
By Jolie Dickson, clinical coordinator
Just a few short months ago I started my new job at Comprehensive Gastrointestinal Health (CGH). I was unexpectedly presented a wonderful opportunity that literally saved my life. I was starting to feel my four walls close in on me and the stress of not working. Then, the stars aligned and I found a job that allowed me to get out of my house and work with an incredibly talented, smart and wonderful team of people. I had something to look forward to every day. Yep. It’s the unexpected things that change our lives.
Fast forward 3 months and I never would have expected something like COVID-19 to happen. My very predictable, safe daily routine of motherhood, work and exercise (and lots of laundry) kept me moving mentally and physically. Unexpectedly, the world changed quickly and I found myself working from home (with a husband and two teenage boys) Now what?
The one constant keeping us together at CGH is that our daily routines may have changed in an unprecedented way, but we have successfully managed to communicate with our patients in the same vibrant, professional and compassionate way we always have.
If not for the CGH team, I don’t know if I could have adapted to working at home so quickly. I am able to motivate and get things done. Here are some valuable tips I have learned from working at home and staying productive. I have highlighted some tips from a wonderful article called the Organizational Culture.
1.) Creating a daily routine.
Stick to your regular work routine. In order to remain in the right headspace, try to create the same routine such as waking up at the same time each morning, making coffee, throwing in a load of laundry, exercise or reading the news. Whatever you did prior to working from home, try to maintain your while you have a home office.
2.) Create a designated work space.
Carving out your own work space is key. It can really allow your mind to settle in a place where you can work productively. Set boundaries and let your family or roommates know your schedule so you can work efficiently. Create a familiar surrounding for yourself. I keep my standard giant water bottle with me, as well as my mini scented oil diffuser. It makes me feel like I am close to my office life and keeps my mind at ease.
3.) Create a list of daily tasks.
Writing a simple to-do list each night allows you to feel less anxious about what ahead for the next day. I find it’s important to actually write it and not have it floating around in my head. A list allows you to feel more organized and motivated for your next work day. Setting long and short-term goals will help you feel confident. As you check off finished goals, you will feel more accomplished and help you recognize that large tasks are more do-able.
4.) Collaborate with your team members.
While you may feel you are on an island by yourself that is not the case. If you work in an office like I do, then you have an army of people behind you all working towards the same goal. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and get feedback. Positive or constructive feedback allows you to grow and learn.
If the team at Comprehensive Gastrointestinal Health can assist you in any way to achieve your health and wellness goals, we would welcome the opportunity. All the clinical coordinators are ready at the phones to set up appointments now or in the future on our HIPAA secure electronic medical record! Our behavioral coach/counselor, dietitian, nurse practitioner, and gastroenterologist are all available for TELEMEDICINE VISITS now or get a coveted Saturday morning colonoscopy scheduled for this summer. Don’t hesitate to call us at 224.407.4400 or visit compgihealth.com for more information.