For many, working from home, or more specifically not working in the office was the only highlight of the two-year global catastrophe we faced. Many people at least got to hunker down without having to queue for the microwave at lunchtime or talk to their co-workers about “what they’ve been up to”, knowing full well that “nothing” was the only appropriate response under the circumstances.
However, the turbulence of the pandemic has appeared to subside, which means plenty of people are back to facing the commute and casual conversation.
If you’re looking for some tips on how to survive coming back to the office post-pandemic, you’ve come to the right place.
- Be Somewhere You Want to Be
Whether you’re a business looking at how to help your employees or a freelancer looking for a home away from home, the search for an office is one of the most important aspects of making the transition comfortable – even welcome.
Location does matter when it comes to productivity, comfortability, and encouraging mental wellness – which is why it’s always worthwhile putting in the effort to find somewhere that’ll suit.
Some factors to consider include (but are not limited to):
- Plenty of natural light – daylight increases productivity and creativity, and boosts morale.
- An easy to reach location – it’ll put employees and other workers off if the office is in the middle of nowhere or difficult to get to.
- Visibility – might not be that important to those working in the building, but it can be integral for the businesses’ brand and marketing.
- Ample parking – does anyone want to get to the office only to worry about where to park?
- A suitable size – make sure there’s room to breathe along with space for all of the essentials.
2. Find a New Routine
It’s unlikely that anyone’s routine has gotten off scot-free with such a big upheaval, but knowing that this change is coming up can help you get prepared. Will you need to get up earlier? Do you have to shift current arrangements around to make going back into the office work? Do you need anything you don’t have, to make going back to the office possible?
These are just some of the questions that are worth considering when you start to put together a new routine.
3. Set Boundaries
Going back into the office after two years or so can feel a little daunting, if not for the fact that many people have had a lot more autonomy by working from home – and become accustomed to that. To continue on this trajectory, set boundaries to make sure people respect your time and energy as you may have much less time to yourself. And don’t be afraid to say no in person if your workload starts to pile up unmanageably.
