AdNews last year launched the WFH Diaries during the depths of the fallout from the pandemic, a way of sharing how people were spending their days.
This time we're asking for a run down on how everyone likes to start their day working from home. Some dress to impress, others slip on the t-shirt.
And everyone has their own way to carve the day into manageable chunks.
Gemma Watkins, Group Business Director at JCDecaux:
I warm up my negotiation skills first thing, working to convince my almost-two-year-old that clothes are necessary for day care. It’s a battle, but we always get there in the end.
Following the drop off at day care, I grab a much-needed coffee from my local barista and head off for a walk around Sydney Park with my dog Alfie. I usually walk into work as it energises me for the day, so I have tried to keep this up during lockdown. Sydney Park is a really beautiful spot to be in the mornings. Plus lots of doggo’s running around so Alfie is happy.
When I get home, I get ready for work as I normally would although it’s usually work attire up the top and trackies on the bottom. I find keeping up this routine helps to get me in a business mindset and helps differentiate the weekdays from the weekends.
Tips for getting through the day?
Getting out in the middle of the day for some fresh air and to step away from the screen is a must for me. I really feel it on the days that I don’t get out. I have an exercise buddy and we keep each other accountable for getting out each day.
The entire JCDecaux Sydney team has the option to take part in a Zoom workout on a Friday. It’s a really nice way to connect with the broader team at the end of the week.
I try to vary the way that I communicate with people – a mix of Teams and phone calls, emails and texts. A learning from last lockdown was that too much time spent on Teams can zap your energy. Although the face time is nice!
During the original lockdown in 2020 I created an Instagram page @i.s.o.m.a.t.e
It is designed to help spread the word about small businesses that have pivoted during lockdown. Most of the content is focused on cafes, restaurants and bars offering takeaway and delivery.
When Sydney went into lockdown again this time around, I got it up and running again and have been posting regularly to help promote small businesses.
Distractions?
Gladys’ 11am update.
Upside. Downside.
More time spent with my family is a big upside to lockdown. Alfie’s pretty happy about the extra walks too!
I am missing seeing my colleagues face-to-face and the office chat. I am also missing in-person meetings.
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