Adjusting to a new and temporary normal

It's not easy, I totally get that, and I am not pretending to understand what all the parents are feeling like.  The parents who have not only had to become teachers, but also learn to work in a totally new environment...home.  I learned just with myself that without figuring out some ways to set myself up, things quickly devolved into chaos.  That's just me, those changes are exponentially needed when you add in the other pieces I mentioned above. Here are some easy ways to help structure to create a temporary new normal that will help you remain not only productive, but also help you mentally. 

• Create a dedicated work space
  • Here's an easy way to figure out what the best room is.  Write down the rooms with the space/hookups that you can work with, then pick the room on the list with the least foot traffic and distractions. 
• Set yourself a schedule.
  • Up at the same time.
  • Train at the same time.
  • Start work at the same time to the best of your ability.
  • End work at the same time to the best of your ability.
  • Set boundaries with others.
    • If you wouldn’t answer an email from a parent/client at 8pm under normal circumstances, and it doesn't affect something happening immediately the next day...DON'T ANSWER IT!
• Learn to use the snooze function on your email
  • Most email services have a snooze function, you can select the emails and they will disappear from your inbox until a date and time you decide on.
• Utilize the “do not disturb” function on your phone.
  • Set a time, turn it on, get off your phone.

You have to find ways to organize your time and set boundaries.  Everyone is in chaos, everyone is trying to adjust, the more we are able to organize our time and work, the more we are able to organize our minds. 

Coach Adam