"My husband and I take turns looking after our twins"
Can you give a brief description of your home office work routine?
Define routine… every day brings some new challenges. But basically, my husband and I divide each day into two to three shifts, and each of us hides in our "home office" (spare room) during their shift. Meanwhile, the other cares for our twins, cooks, does laundry and tries to order supplies online. During my work shift, I answer the most pertinent e-mails, meet with my group members and prepare/deliver my lecture.
Do you have any specific advice that makes working from home easier?
I am still very much in the process of adjusting to the new situation, so no wisdom and tips yet. It is clear that it is impossible to be as productive as before – in case of working parents like my husband and me, we can work at most 50%. What helped me was to realise that everyone is struggling with the same issues, and we have to collectively go easy on everyone, especially ourselves. I prioritise communication with my group and collaborators, as well as adjusting to online teaching. Having these clear priorities helps me organise my to-do list for my "shift".
What is your strategy to cope with cabin fever when working from home?
I post funny nonsense on my group's WhatsApp chat, occasionally look at vacation photos, enjoy watching my kids play and gaze out of the window as much as I can.
"It is clear that it is impossible to be as productive as before."Prof. Olga Sorkine-Hornung
What do you like most about working from home?
I'm not a morning person, so I enjoy not having to stress about getting the kids ready and hurry out of the door in the mornings. I also love working in relaxed home apparel these days.
What is your current menu plan?
Oatmeal or yogurt for breakfast, after that it's whatever the kids agree to eat – pasta, sausages, paprika, and zucchini are typical winners.
Do you have a recommendation for an app that might be useful at this particular time?
I would recommend a home workout app, now that all gyms are closed. It's great for lifting the mood and improving sleep. I use Freeletics, but there are tons of others.