Tuesday 11 February 2020

The bright side of loadshedding

Loadshedding is completely disruptive and has a major effect on our economy. Closer to home, it is a nightmare to have a manufacturing company that relies on power. That loadshedding sticks to schedules makes a world of difference but two lose two or four hours of an eight-hour work day does absolutely no good.

That said, my day is primarily computer-based admin and I have taken to using the loadshedding hours to my advantage.

With non-stop emails and a ton of computer-based work that I can't keep up with, power-out is a release for me. My laptop battery only lasts for 30mins these days so when that is done, I can't do a thing. I often struggle to get away from my desk so the 12h00 - 14h30 loadshedding slot sees me getting out to do errands that need to be done. I've also used this time to get to the shops, take Rusty for a run, to read and even for a quick nap (the benefit of having a home office).

The 16h00 to 18h00 slot is also well times because this is often when I get out for a run or paddle anyway. 

I'm quite enjoying 20h00 to 22h00 because I tend to work until 8pm and then the power out forces me to turn off. I make dinner, watch something on my phone that I've downloaded from Netflix and then I go to bed early, enjoying a book by headlamp. If the power is on, I can be found working until stipid o' clock.

Loadshedding is bad for work, employers and economy, and overall productivity but there are definitely advantages to it for me!