How To Study At Home
As we adjust to new ways of working and studying, our team has gathered some tips on how to cope… and maybe even thrive, in the transition.
In these unprecedented times, the true team is here for you. We are all switched-on, logged in, and continuing to serve you.
Here’s what is working well for us:
Acknowledging the situation
Tempting as it might be to go with the ‘business as usual’ mantra, we may well be better served by acknowledging that this IS a time of change, and that new, unfamiliar measures will need to be put in place. Working from home can be a big adjustment, and one that may require some trial and error. Allow some time to identify what helps, and to refine the routine as you go.
Mindset is key
As with every challenge, our mental approach to the coming weeks will make all the difference fo you to work from home.
It is a known fact that ‘what you resist persists’, so instead of engaging against the current, temporary restrictions, consider adopting a more enabling mindset, and even contemplating that the new working conditions are just right for the tasks at hand.
Set up a workspace that is as conducive as possible.
Identify a spot that feels good to work in- quiet, well lit, comfortable. To study from home you should try to keep it clear and uncluttered, and only dedicated to studying. This will also help protect your relaxation/ downtime space, by keeping them separate, as much as possible.
Look after your physical well being
Now more than ever, looking after your body is key. Do make time for regular breaks, to avoid sitting down for too long. These can be cooking/ tidying up/ housework bursts that will also get things done. Not being out and about can make cooking more feasible, and eating well more possible.
Ensure you build in some physical exercise into your day. Choose from the array of at-home exercise options that are available online. Yoga is a good one for body, mind and spirit, and there are so many types to choose from. But since no one is watching, why not have a go at something you have always wanted to try but never dared to in a public setting? Salsa dancing? Tai-chi?
Sleep is another powerful ally; and little changes like avoiding caffeine, alcohol, screens just before bedtime can make a huge difference.
Beyond routines- the power of rituals
It can be helpful to stick to your usual routines, as far as possible. No excuse for working in your pyjamas, unless that seriously inspires you! Our team members who regularly work remotely swear by getting ready to go to work, even if that means sitting at the desk in your room! Do whatever you normally do to turn up for lectures- shaving, wearing fresh clothes, makeup… Whatever helps to cue ‘work mode’ for you, use it at home!
Stay social and connected
Social distancing needn’t mean isolation. Do find ways to support each other, and keep each other going. Have a ‘progress buddy’ you update daily (here at true central, it’s twice a day); connect with your friends through your favourite media, including live face time. We are trialling brunch/ happy hour/ coffee with our buddies this weekend, and we will let you know how it all went!
Seek help if the going gets tough
This is essential. None of this will be easy all of the time, and there may be testing times ahead. If you feel isolated, vulnerable, PLEASE reach out immediately. Call your friends or family. Reading through some of our mental health resources such as our guide to self-isolation or dealing with Corona anxiety might help.
We’re here for you.
And finally…stay open to the gift!
These times will undoubtedly bring challenges. But they can also present rich opportunities. We are forced to reassess old behaviours and assumptions, and we can make room for new ways. We will have to dig deep into our resourcefulness, resilience and creativity.
It may be helpful to remember that some of our finest thinking emerged out of isolation and adversity: the writings of Nelson Mandela and Victor Frankl, for example. Or those of Shakespeare, who wrote Kind Lear whilst in quarantine. Ok, no pressure, we hear you say…Maybe not King Lear, but we can all discover new strengths in this experience.
Keep well, and see you soon!