- Taryn Herlich is a writer,
student , and mental health advocate based in Toronto, Canada. - Herlich says she's come to prefer her at-home study and work routine over the pre-pandemic norm.
- She experiences less
anxiety learning from home, and has more time to work on her hobbies and passions.
Some may say I've gotten a little too comfortable with the habit of staying home. I've always been a homebody, an introvert, a person who thrives in the comfort of well … being alone. While I enjoy socializing, I also struggle from panic attacks which often surface in places that exhibit high stress, like school and work. So you can understand that when the switch for a virtual education became the new "normal," I was rather relieved.
I'm currently a student at Ryerson University, and besides taking classes online during the pandemic, I've also begun working as a freelance writer. Working from home has ultimately allowed me to realize that I do best when I manage my own schedule, create my own rules, and work at my own pace.
Even given the option to return to in-person life after the pandemic, I've come to the realization that I'd rather continue with my virtual way of life. Here's why:
1. Independent work
I've always said I want to be my own boss one day. I work better on my own since I enjoy creating tasks for myself and coming up with new projects. I'm actually more motivated when working alone, and love the satisfaction of successfully completing something by myself.
In past jobs, I've often found that the fast-paced environment wasn't for me. While some thrive under the pressure, I tend to fumble. I get easily flustered, and become rather clumsy when I feel someone looking over my shoulder.
Because of this, I enjoy online work as there's far less pressure and less room for people to micromanage my every move. I can leave my desk to do a workout between classes, and spend more time with my cat who would absolutely get separation anxiety if I wasn't home! Of course, I still have set hours when I write and attend classes, but there is a certain weight off my shoulders knowing that I can do these tasks autonomously. Still, I obviously don't want to cut myself off from society. My hope is to find a job that gives me the option to work online, or at the very least, independently while still having social contact.
2. Decrease in people-related stressors
Remember that spiteful coworker who scowled at you, the traffic on Monday morning, the crowded train you could barely fit into, the headache you had after a long day of loud meetings? I'm not saying everyday was bad, but I found myself far more on edge and irritable when I had to interact with people all day long. Working from home, this stressor is greatly reduced (minus a few annoyances from family).
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3. Commuting
Sometimes the commutes I'd take would absolutely drain me. By the time I'd arrive home after a long day of school or work, I would feel listless and unmotivated. Working from home allows more time in a day to pursue hobbies or projects that you love. There's a much better work-life balance when not having to deal with the daily come and go. It's great being able to finally have time to eat breakfast before class, and not feel in a constant state of rush. There is this sense of flexibility, while still remaining occupied, and this I feel is something anyone can benefit from.
4. Comfort
I'm probably one of the few people who enjoy online learning. Ever since I was little, school has always been a place that created immense stress for me, whether it was participating in discussions or leading a presentation. Sometimes, just being on campus was stress inducing.
Now, I realize this may be more of a me problem rather than an education system problem, but learning from home has really helped my anxiety. I've had fewer panic attacks since switching to online learning, and am much more comfortable completing the remaining two years of my degree this way. On top of that, being able to stay inside during Toronto's brisk winters has been a major perk!
5. Freedom to work anywhere
Working and learning online doesn't have to be boring. You can find so many different spots to get tasks done. When the lockdown is lifted in Toronto, I hope to explore the city and find different coffee shops, libraries, parks, and cafes where I can work. So if I want to get dressed up and work from somewhere different each day I can, but if I also want to wear sweatpants and stay home I can do that too. If your job allows, you might even be able to move to a different city or country for a true
6. More chances to express my creativity
During the pandemic, I've been able to truly dive into my creative interests. I stopped procrastinating and finally started writing a novel, and have enjoyed planning and cooking healthy, delicious meals. Working and taking classes online gives me more time in a day, and removes a certain pressure of being surrounded by other people. Plus, the initial boredom of being stuck inside due to the pandemic has given way to being motivated for creative endeavours.
Of course, it's not always rainbows and butterflies. There are times when I miss the memories and interactions I had pre-pandemic. But to combat the feelings of loneliness, I've kept in closer touch with friends and family, and even adopted a cat.
To avoid feeling like each day is the same, I start a new schedule every few days. This has helped me become more productive, and allows my days to be somewhat different. Beginning a new exercise routine, starting a creative project, or recipe that I've never tried before are all strategies I use to set each day apart. I've been able to improve on these goals by implementing rewards and being consistent with time management.
I am definitely eager for normalcy to return. I miss the gym, being able to hug my grandparents, and leaving the house without worrying that I've contracted COVID-19. However, until many of us are acclimated to normal, face to face interaction, I see staying online as a great way to decrease certain anxieties many will face when our society begins to open up.
Taryn Herlich is a Toronto based writer and mental health advocate. Her work has been featured in Teen Vogue and Girls' Life Magazine, and she regularly contributes to a variety of online blogs. Follow her on Instagram.