Workplaces are shuttered, so over the past couple of weeks workers have been sent home to either work from there or count the days until we can return to the daily grind. I am one of the former.
Our building was supporting some people who were trying to stay in the office until restrictions forced them out. Not everybody could get decent Internet at home, especially when they are out in the far reaches of signal strength. They’re struggling to catch up, hoping that modern equipment will enable them to connect.
I will find out on Monday if I can get a better hookup. My broadband is serving, but a permanent solution may come by then. It will involve a heftier monthly bill and a couple of hours of installment time, but it may be worth it in the end to be able to just take my work computer home and relax once in awhile.
I prefer during blizzards, though, not a life-threatening virus.
Many people are having to adjust to working from home. They have family and pets who may not fully understand how to give some personal space. Also, being home brings distractions like the laundry you’re used to doing on evenings and weekends but now beckons from the full basket and demands you spend your break time pre-treating spots.
There has been an increase in shift and top orders online due to working from home. It would be interesting to have a video conference call in which everybody is asked to stand up: they’re probably all in their underwear. It worked for Tom Cruise once, but most of us should still wear pants.
I don’t have casual bum-at-home clothes, including jeans or leggings, and don’t plan to look at any or stock up right now. That may sound strange, but I was never in the habit of coming home and assuming a new outfit. There will be late spring to go to an actual store and get to see and touch and try on things, and be around people without protective gear. Besides, ordering clothes online is tricky, and when they don’t fit, you can’t just return them at a store.
Meanwhile, I have gained back some time in my life not spent driving to work anymore. What I did do today was get my car’s maintenance work done. The place was quiet without an open sales floor, but once the building was open for the secretary I was able to sit in the showroom with her while waiting for guys in gloves to work on my car in the back. I guess staying at home will enable some things to get done that won’t involve getting time off from the office, but that bothers me a bit. I think I’ll wait until we’re back to work and use vacation time to summon the repairmen for spring cleaning.
I want to devote my work time to being on the clock. Just like the one in the office, which I may not see for a few more weeks.
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