So my last entry was about getting a job offer, and the three months that have passed since seems like a very short and yet a very long period of time. I’ve been out of school now for about 6 months, and that has been a strange adjustment mentally. I’m unaccustomed to not planning my course load for the new term, not doing reading for class, writing essays and worrying about fulfilling all my various degree requirements. Finding myself living in a new place and contemplating the imminent departure of my husband to Afghanistan, I have also come to the realization that I’m not entirely sure how to meet people outside of the context of classes and school-related extra curricular activities.
Now I’m working for an awesome company where I have the honor to work with inspiring people every single day. Not to mention I can start my mornings with an hour of working in bed with a kitten snuggled up behind my laptop! Okay, I admit it isn’t the best habit to be in, but with a winter chill finally settling in here and a fluffy kitten or two for company who could resist! (The photo below is from when Aslan was recovering from the vet visit that left him less one testicle. Yes, you read that right. Even though they cut in to his belly, they couldn’t find #2 to complete the pair. But that’s another story)
The transition to working from home has been an interesting one. Of course there are pros and cons to the remote working model. One con is of course the loneliness factor. Some of my colleagues live in big cities, and can work socially. The nearest colleague I have is a three hour drive away. There are also very few wifi hotspots in this town, so it is a challenge to work out of the house for the simple purpose of getting out.
That being said, in addition to having the option of getting cozy in bed or on the couch during part of your day (don’t you love laptops?), it can be quite a luxury to work from home. I have set up my office to my exact desired specifications. When I’m not one the phone taking calls I can listen to my favorite podcasts or music while I answer user’s email questions. I’m not gonna lie, it can be pretty awesome most days. It doesn’t hurt that my company does a particularly good job of maintaining our “office” culture across state and national lines too.
More on my tactics and lessons learned about remote working later. Until next time!
I can totally relate, Sylvia! =) It’s so relaxing to be working at home with my kittens. =) Glad the transition went well!
Thanks Sam! I think as long as you still find a way to distinguish between your work and your home life, working from your home can be fantastic!