This new working from home situation is tough but doing it as a couple can be even more challenging. The idea itself is cute because who doesn’t want to spend more time with boo? However, in reality working in such close quarters can be a recipe for disaster. Avoid a quarantine break up by agreeing to some WFH ground rules. We spoke to Ben from @dailytouchofclass and Victoria from @victorias_beautyedit on how they’ve adjusted to WFH together and their tips so you can too.
What do you both do?
B: We both work in the Rail industry. Victoria is a contracts manager and I work as a Commercial Manager for another railway company. We have been WFH together for three weeks not and it has definitely been an adjustment.
Can you tell us about how you two met and how long you’ve been together?
V: We first met before a university lecture eleven years ago. I was looking for a smart hottie to finish my group assignments and Benn finally won me over! Seven years later we got engaged in Paris under the sparkling lights of the Eiffel Tower. We were meant to tie the knot next month but sadly corona virus had other ideas. We have now moved the wedding to November back in our home, Australia and fingers crossed we will get down the aisle in 2020!!
What is the go-to lunch you make to cheer the other up when work gets stressful?
V: A toastie with the lot always puts a smile on Benn's face but, truth be told, I can really feed him anything and he'll be happy.
B: Vic's new favourite is a fresh scone with jam and cream.
Do you recommend having your breaks together or separately?
V: A mixture of both is good! We are legit together 24/7 so it's good for Benn to get out and ride his bike whilst I do a home workout or pamper myself with a face mask.
B: I'll agree with Vic on this one. Getting a workout or some 'solo' cycling in will always do you good during stressful and confined workdays.
How do you destress after work?
V: I like to make dinner with a Gin & Tonic in hand!
B: Go for a ride to Regents park or pour myself a nice fresh Negroni.
Music or no music?
V & B: During work we have our AirPods in because we definitely like to listen to different tunes.
Have you had to set any ground rules?
V & B: Yes!! Especially where phone calls are concerned and we are sitting at the same table. The second person to get a call has to go into the bedroom. We also take turns making meals each day which works really well.
Any conference call disasters?
V: I was video conferencing my boss in our bedroom and Benn came in and jumped on the bed to cuddle me. It was a wee bit awkward, but I think everyone is a bit more relaxed at the moment given the situation, so we all laughed!
B: So far so good, I just need to make sure the mute button is on during my calls as Vic tends to forget I am in a meeting and loves a chat.
Does working in the same industry make WFH together easier or harder?
V: Probably makes it a bit easier as we have a good understanding of what our jobs entail. It also helps when you’re whinging about certain aspects of the job and can get some advice.
B: I would say easier. We are both on the same schedules, understand the pressures each other can be under and know how to support each other when we need it.
Have you seen the viral tip saying couples should blame an imaginary co-worker for their partner’s bad habits?
V: Hmm...Benn has definitely tried to adopt this one. He tells me it's Janice that keeps leaving the cups in the sink, LOL!
B: Bloody Janice again, she's so lazy!!
Does working in the same industry make WFH together easier or harder?
V: Probably makes it a bit easier as we have a good understanding of what our jobs entail. It also helps when you’re whinging about certain aspects of the job and can get some advice.
B: I would say easier. We are both on the same schedules, understand the pressures each other can be under and know how to support each other when we need it.
Have you seen the viral tip saying couples should blame an imaginary co-worker for their partner’s bad habits?
V: Hmm...Benn has definitely tried to adopt this one. He tells me it's Janice that keeps leaving the cups in the sink, LOL!
B: Bloody Janice again, she's so lazy!!
Victoria + Benn’s WFH tips
Have a designated working space
It’s so important to separate work from rest. If you have two different rooms, it’s best to set up your working spaces separately but if you’re working on the same table like we are make sure to respect each other’s space.
Keep well fed
No one likes the hangry co-worker, so we recommend bringing each other meals throughout the day to help keep the peace.
Stick to a routine
Try and wake up every day nice and early at the same time making sure to write yourself a to do list for the day. Make sure you’re setting aside an hour for your lunch break and any breaks you might need throughout the day.
Stay active
As part of that daily routine it’s important to fit in some physical exercise. It doesn’t matter if it’s a walk up and down the stairwell in your apartment building or challenge yourself to do a thousand push ups a day, the key is for physical exercise to keep the mind sharp and the spirits high.
Dress the part
So, whilst it may be tempting to stay in your pjs all day, it’s not great for morale and really not good for conference calls with your boss. I (Victoria) like to chuck on my favourite blazer typically a nice bright one or wear your favourite set of loungewear so you can really stay professional.