A Silver Lining to Working Remotely

by Liz Cooney, Learning Specialist

For anyone who is new to working at home, the transition may be confusing, frustrating, and a sigh of relief all in one. Without time to prepare for this change, many of us now find ourselves staring at computer screens attempting to focus on our inboxes amidst kids, pets, partners, roommates, or on the contrary, overwhelming silence and isolation. Depending on your personality and your line of work, the change of scenery could be a welcome shift compared to your typical routine. Maybe you are more productive from home without interruptions, meetings, and distractions. For others, the challenges accompanying working from home could cause a lack of motivation and a decrease in productivity. CONTINUE READING...

What is Your Procrastination Pattern?

Take this Quiz to Find Out!

Working at home can be as challenging as working in the office if there are things we procrastinate on. What is your procrastination pattern? Knowing your pattern might help you troubleshoot any tendencies to procrastinate. Take our quiz to find out.

There are four procrastination patterns.  We’re going to present four statements to you.  To figure out where you are most likely to procrastinate, see which of these statements you most identify with.

1. I am often guilty of thinking I’ll relax after I finish a project. 
2. I know there is a need for introspective thinking time but I put it off for another day.
3. I invent reasons or look for excuses for not having a difficult conversation.
4. I delay making a decision until I gather all the information.

Quiz: Let’s reveal your procrastination pattern.

If you chose (a) I am often guilty of thinking I’ll relax after I finish a project, you may procrastinate when it comes to fun, leisure and relaxation.  Since there are an endless number of projects, relaxation time seldom comes for you.

If you chose (b) I know there is a need for introspective thinking time but I put it off for another day, you may procrastinate when it comes to quiet, reflective thinking time.  You may be measuring success by activity rather than accomplishment.

If you chose (c) I invent reasons or look for excuses for not having a difficult conversation, you may procrastinate when it comes to interpersonal conflict. You may avoid interactions that are potentially negative or beat around the bush in some conversations.

If you chose (d) I delay making a decision until I gather all the information, you may procrastinate when it comes to decision-making.  Since there is always more to know and more data to analyze, you may put off decision-making activities.

Did you identify with more than one of the statements?  By becoming conscious to your procrastination patterns, you can catch yourself when you fall into common traps and choose different behaviors.