Hi ,

It’s been just over five years since we went into the first Covid lockdown. For many, it might seem like a lifetime ago when our working world changed almost overnight.

Offices emptied as kitchen tables became desks, dining rooms and spare rooms became offices and we all jumped on Zoom for our meetings.

Many businesses adapted quickly and people were experiencing the benefits (and pitfalls) of working from home. The daily commute now took minutes but the daily working routine was disrupted and the lines between work and home became blurred.

What Changed

The temporary solution became permanent and has changed into something longer-term for many industries. Many people are remote or hybrid working as part of the 'new normal'. It's part of the job description and the expectation.

The majority of my clients are now working one or two days a week or a month, in the office. While the flexibility is great, it needs different routines, work patterns and adaptability.

Zoom is fully integrated into the 'new normal' and means we don't have to have all our meetings in person but you can end up with back to back meetings, switching straight from one meeting to the next.

And even now, years later, not everyone has found their new rhythm. Many are still navigating what work looks and feels like now and struggling to maintain their boundaries.

Focus, Habits and Productivity

Many people are still struggling with things they used to find easy. Staying focused. Creating structure. Sticking to habits. Being productive.

Some of this is practical. Our routines changed, the traditional office structure disappeared. Prioritising what's important and how we connect, communicate and are held accountable changed.

Some of it is emotional. It’s hard to stay focus and motivated when you’re mentally drained, dealing with uncertainty or still recovering from stress or personal loss.

The uncertainty and change in priorities made people re-evaluate what really matters. I'm seeing them change jobs, working differently, wanting to focus on their health and relationships, not just work. Wanting more time and freedom, because you never know what the future might bring.

Your Personal Journey

Wherever you are, it's important to remember you’re not alone. Even when it feels like everyone else is sorted and has it all figured it out, they might not. 

You never know if that calmly, gliding swan is furiously paddling away underneath just to stay afloat.

We all went through the same thing but we all experienced it differently and you need to adjust in your own time, in your own way.

There’s no right or wrong way. There's no single definition of what's normal. Build something new with where you are.

Moving Forward With Intention

So where does that leave you? Start by taking time to pause and check in.

• What’s working for you right now?
• What no longer fits?
• What do you need to let go of?
• What kind of routine would feel more supportive and less stressful?

Don't worry if you haven't got it all figured out or you don't know where to start. Small steps can make a big difference. Things like reviewing your weekly structure, setting clearer boundaries between your work and home life, being able to reconnect with what gives you purpose.

Give yourself permission to do things in a way that fits you, not what others are doing or expecting.

If you need help getting started or moving forward, let me know. 

If you have any questions or need further support. I'm here to help.

Until next time,

        Clare

P.S. You can access ongoing structured support and accountability inside the Productivity Hub.