Balance work and home as they combine

By: Donovan W. Mann – [email protected]

Humboldt, IA – Many Iowans are now working from home due to the COVID-19 pandemic which can lead to a tricky situation when it comes to balance work and home.

Behavioral health specialist for the Iowa State Extension and Outreach office David Brown reports that many Iowans are now dealing with a difficult situation with balancing work and home when situations have forced them to become one in the same. He gives some advice to Iowans on how best to manage this delicate balance.

Setting boundaries is very important in these situations Brown reports. Some suggestions he has are making weekends dedicated to not working or making sure most evenings are dedicated to relaxing unless there is pressing work to be done. He also advises that Iowans set a schedule with breaks in place to refresh themselves.l Creating a designated work place within the home is also a great way to set a boundary between work and the rest of the home.

Brown also says it is important to set up a work schedule while at home and sticking to it most of the time. He says that this provides Iowans working from home with the flexibility to work the most during their higher focus hours. In the same way people can train themselves for a nightly bedtime routine they can better prepare themselves for a work day in the morning. He also says that dressing as if going to work will help maintain a sense of normal routine.

Finally Brown says that those working at home should enjoy the advantages. These include the familiarity of the environment, comfort, no travel, and flexibility with self-management. He also includes the perk of having more time with family.