Working From Home During Coronavirus
First off, let me give credit where credit is due. I didn’t come up with these concepts. My brother, a PhD student in archeology at Washington State University, who is writing his dissertation paper with the help of group writing (and another friend who pair programs) got me thinking about how these techniques freelancers in the photo/film industry.
I’m working from home now and for an extrovert like myself it can feel like running a never ending marathon I didn’t sign up for, particularly in this time of social distancing. Sure, the quiet time does allow me to do some of my best thinking. But too often I find myself going down the rabbit hole of the internet (eventually watching a video about a rocket powered golf club…you’re welcome). Not only are we made to be with people but an added benefit of these practices is they remind you to get your butt to work when that giggling YouTube decent down the rabbit hole goes a little too deep.
In academia they use group writing to stay on task, encourage one another, and receive quick feedback. Oftentimes this is done in person but there’s no reason this can’t be done virtually.
So below is how I’ve adapted the ideas for freelancers who work remotely:
Gather a group of people from similar professions (4-5 people). If you’re a photographer don’t think it’s got to be all photographers. Designers, editors, illustrators and other creatives can be great because they work in another medium and have different ways of seeing things.
Meet up at a scheduled time via Zoom, Google Hangouts/Meet, Skype, etc. (agree in advance on how long you’ll meet, I think 2-3 hours is a good ballpark).
Spend the first 30 minutes or so giving an update on what you’re working on and what you hope to accomplish over the next couple hours (don’t hog the time, make sure everyone gets a chance to share). Don’t hesitate to share your screen so everyone can see what you’re talking about.
Get to work!
After the time has expired reconvene and share what you were able to accomplish.
The fun thing about this is it can be tailored to your needs. I would aim to do it at least once a week. Monday’s might be best because they give you something to look forward to and a way to start the week with some momentum. It’s up to you whether you want to keep the video call going while you work or hang up and reconvene later (I think having the call continue is best, it helps keep you on task). If you want feedback on what you’re working on make sure you build that into the time at the end.
Want to make it a little more enjoyable? Make one week a beer week, where you each drink your favorite beer. The next week can be a chocolate week and the next a healthy snack week and so on.
Did I miss anything? Would you add anything? If you’ve done this, how has it worked out for you? Let me know in the comments below!