Introduction
(2020/02 ~ 2020/06)
Around mid-February, the COVID-19 outbreak gradually escalated in Tokyo, Japan. Although I work in Fukuoka, the company implemented a remote work policy at the end of February to prevent the spread of the virus. The purpose was to reduce commuting and minimize the risk of infection. Here, I will share my experiences during this period.
Observations
With the elimination of commuting time (which was only about 45 minutes in total), I found that I had more time available. Previously, I used to arrive at the office early and organize my tasks at a café. Now, I intentionally sleep a bit later, which is something I need to reflect on.
Additionally, I noticed that my efficiency has indeed improved. However, the office environment is still much more comfortable, with air conditioning, a 4K 27-inch monitor, fully equipped iMac, reliable internet, adjustable desk, and a comfortable chair. In contrast, the equipment at home is relatively basic. Nevertheless, without distractions around me, I can focus better on work, and many tasks are completed earlier than planned.
I also observed that some colleagues experienced a significant decrease in efficiency during remote work, which can be seen from their activity on GitHub and the number of pull requests submitted.
Personally, I am able to clearly separate work and personal time, so I don't find myself doing household chores during work hours or working during my personal time.
Uber Eats
During this period, whenever I felt lazy to cook, I would order from Uber Eats. I have ordered around 20 to 30 times during this time. I feel that the delivery personnel are working very hard, so I always give them an additional tip when placing an order. I also asked them if they actually receive the tip. They mentioned that although they do receive it, they usually find out after completing the delivery, rather than during the delivery itself.
Observations in Japan
- Almost everyone wears masks, although the number of people wearing masks seems to have decreased after the state of emergency was lifted (based on occasional observations when going out).
- Convenience stores and supermarkets have installed plastic barriers to prevent droplet transmission.
- Many people still visit parks.
Drawbacks
Declining Health
Having more time available, I tend to spend more time glued to the screen, resulting in poor time management. During this period, the gym was closed (and they still charged membership fees), so I couldn't exercise. Sitting for long periods of time has caused increasing shoulder and upper back pain. Looking back, even with the gym closure, I could have done some bodyweight exercises at home.
Recently, I watched videos from SBD, and coincidentally, the gym reopened. I have started to regain my fitness routine, but my stamina and endurance have significantly declined. It feels frustrating to start again.
Time Management
Previously, with defined working hours, I could plan my tasks effectively. Now, I find myself sometimes working aimlessly. Although I have completed various tasks intermittently, such as exploring IoT, playing with Raspberry Pi, reading books (Atomic Habits, Deep Work, etc.), learning new frameworks, writing a few development articles, and catching up on deep learning, I feel the need to allocate time more efficiently to ensure a more focused workflow.
Unable to Return to Taiwan
During the pandemic, if I were to return to Taiwan from Japan, I would have to undergo a 14-day quarantine. Moreover, Japan currently does not allow entry for foreigners, even if they have a student or work visa. Therefore, once I return to Taiwan, I won't be able to come back to Japan for a while.
Conclusion
I don't know when this period will come to an end. After the pandemic, the first thing I want to do is spend a whole day at Chiran Station, enjoying the view of the sea. Then, I really want to go back to Taiwan to listen to familiar Chinese, indulge in crispy and juicy fried chicken and bubble tea, and have a chat with old friends whom I haven't seen for a long time.
Oh, and Taiwanese pizza is really delicious! I miss the stuffed crust. I don't understand why pizzas in Japan are so salty, and the crust is not that tasty. It feels like eating a cheese cracker. Oh, and the egg tarts from KFC! I remember when I first went to a KFC in Japan, I thought they would have egg tarts, but the staff looked at me with confusion and told me that if I wanted egg tarts, I should go to a bakery.
