Congratulations! You finally found the perfect online job for yourself. As more online jobs for PWDs become available, I’m sure you won’t be the only one that will find a job. Remote work has opened new doors for PWDs to prove themselves in the workplace. That said, now’s not the time to become complacent. Getting hired is one thing; maintaining it is a different story.
Just like regular online workers, PWD online workers also have to deal with work from home challenges. That’s not even mentioning the challenges exclusive to PWD workers, such as the lack of appropriate equipment. Adjusting to this new and unfamiliar work setup can be difficult, but don’t let this dissuade you from trying remote work.
To help you adjust, here are some important reminders that you need to know when starting as a remote PWD worker. These tips will range from general work advice such as establishing your workspace and communicating with your supervisors to self-care tips often overlooked today.
Workspace Matters
Yes. Again with this one. I’m sure you’re all tired of seeing me talk about this constantly. But in my experience, establishing a proper workspace is a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of remote work. Having an appropriate workspace will make you more productive and helps in avoiding stress and burnout.
For neurodivergent individuals, having a workspace helps keep you oriented in working instead of other things. Additionally, having a workspace gives remote PWD workers a sense of purpose and confidence that they too can work just like everyone else.
Don’t be Afraid to Ask your Supervisors for Help.
Another thing to remember when starting your online job is asking for help when you need it. Your supervisors aren’t psychics, so they can’t read what’s on your mind. If you’re having difficulty doing a task, don’t hesitate to ask your supervisors for help in accomplishing them. Doing this helps your supervisors in knowing what kind of support you’ll need in your job.
For example, you’re having difficulty understanding an instruction for your work. You can ask your supervisor for help understanding this instruction so you can do it yourself next time. Another example is when you’re trying to find a hearing aid for work. You can request help from your company in getting one.
Sleep is Essential
This advice once again comes from my own experience adjusting to remote work. Losing sleep is very detrimental to your productivity at work and your health. Not only will you be tired and sluggish in the morning, but your creativity and critical thinking skills are also affected. Even today, I still struggle with getting seven to eight hours of sleep every night.
So how do you catch sleep at night? Honestly, it depends from person to person. Some find it easier to sleep after doing meditation, while others exercise a few hours before sleeping. Another trick that you can try to help you sleep is increasing your bright light exposure during the day.
Don’t Let Yourself Go While Remote Working.
After looking for online jobs for PWDs, finally getting one can be very exciting. And in your excitement and eagerness to prove yourself, you can easily forget about taking care of yourself. The next thing you know, you’re several pounds bigger and paler than snow white.
Practicing self-care helps you to be at your best when working. Simple habits such as brushing your teeth or eating three meals a day help keep you in shape and confident in yourself. Other self-care habits that you can practice as a remote PWD worker are utilizing your breaks for relaxation and enjoying your hobbies after work.
Find Time for Loved Ones
As the saying goes: “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.” Focusing on work is very admirable, but don’t forget to bond with your loved ones. Doing this helps you adjust to remote work by having someone to talk to and support you in your job.
Your bonding activities don’t need to be anything extravagant. A simple lunch with your family, a gaming night with friends, or a group video call are some ways to bond with loved ones.
Conclusion
And we’re done! Here are just a few ways that you can do to adjust to remote work as a PWD worker. As online jobs for PWDs continue to rise, many PWDs are now finding opportunities they never had. I hope that these tips will help these new PWD workers adjust to this new and unfamiliar work setup.
