Handy tips for when you're not a pro at working from home

If Rutte asks you to work from home and you can, then you do that. That's why I'm typing this from my kitchen table. A big jug of coffee within reach, a bowl of dates next to it (I eat more at home), candles lit and Sky Radio in the background. You can't get more homely than this. I certainly miss my editorial colleagues, but on such a work-from-home day I can still tackle Mount Everest worth of work.

Is working from home not really in your system but do you have to do it now? Help is here, because I have tips for you.

Djust be normal
I remember that on my first work-from-home day I worked from eight in the morning until nine in the evening as compensation. As if I had something to make up for because I wasn't in the office. Research shows that you already get more work done when you work from home, so don't be too uptight. Start with a to-do list for the day and just do that laundry in between, no one will get mad because you're filling the dryer for a minute.

Get dressed

Not that I suspect you of working naked behind a desk, but I happen to know that the average freelance journalist only brushes their teeth in the afternoon at five and changes out of worn sweatpants into something presentable, because: chance of human contact. It really makes a difference if you take a shower, brush your hair, and put on jeans and a sweater. You get more into a productive mode.

Find a quiet spot

It's easy for me to talk (pardon my French), because I have a house to myself to work in. If that's not the case, then find and create a spot or corner to work in and agree on clear signals with housemates. Headphones on? Do not disturb. Door closed? There's a reason for that.

Verwen jezelf

Are you completely fed up with those sandwiches every day? This is your moment. Let soup simmer, grill vegetables, stir eggs; you can really go wild with lunch, because you have (I hope for you) a whole stove at your disposal.

Get some fresh air

It's not good for anyone to sit all day with windows and doors closed, unless you have to quarantine of course, so schedule a walk. Just a nice break after lunch or halfway through the afternoon to let some fresh air in. You'll feel much fresher and sharper afterwards.

Call and text

I announce around half past nine that I'm logged in via the app, but it's also nice to call a colleague in between. You do get attached to those types in the workplace and then you have that little coffee moment.