Aisle boss found WFH difficult, says a lot got lost while communicating through screens

Able Joseph also started interacting with a lot more founders during the lockdown.

By Shannon Tellis, ET Bureau | Mar 04, 2021, 05.21 PM IST

Able Joseph spoke about how he navigated the pandemic, what he missed about working from the office and what he's looking forward to once things ease.

When the country went into lockdown almost a year ago and everyone transitioned to working from home almost overnight, no one imagined that would be our new reality. Some people were more productive (thanks to reduced commutes and minimal work travel) while others struggled to balance family responsibilities while keeping up with increasing work demands.

Aisle founder Able Joseph spoke to ET Panache about how he navigated the pandemic, what he missed about working from the office and what he's looking forward to once things ease.

Best together
“The first few weeks of working from home were difficult, as there's a lot that gets lost while communicating through screens. I believe my team and I are at our best when we work together, in one place. Before the lockdown, we used to discuss art, culture, politics, business, and just about anything under the sun. These discussions created a culture of camaraderie and somehow got everyone to focus on our long-term goals."

Also read: Love in the future: Casual no more, Aisle founder feels uncertainty will make way for meaningful relationships

“At a subconscious level, when you work in solitude, you are often completing a series of tasks. But when you work together, you are trying to achieve a common goal. The results measured at the end of a particular day may be the same, but over time, it's certainly more fulfilling for individuals to work from a common place.”

Staying upbeat
“During the lockdown, I've started interacting with a lot more founders. We start talking about products, services, markets, etc. and it often ends up feeling like a therapy session. I also try guided meditation a few times a week and hope to make it a daily practice soon. I compose music and write poetry in my free time and finally, managed to record some of them. Besides that, I'm experimenting with aquaponics. I feel some homes in the future will have a small vegetable garden of their own.”

Holiday blues
“Every year, we take a trip for our company’s anniversary in July. Last year, we had been planning a trip to Andaman and Nicobar Islands but it had to be put off. Post the pandemic, I look forward to visiting South Korea as I've always been intrigued by their street food culture. My favourite restaurant is Hae Kum Gang in Brigade Road. You could walk in there in your pyjamas and have the most authentic Korean food in Bengaluru.”

Shopping destination
“My favourite shopping destination has to be the streets of Delhi. There's much to learn while shopping there. You can negotiate, understand pricing, presentation, persuasion, etc. If it wasn't for the interaction with these shop owners, I’d prefer to shop online."

"The one thing I wish I had purchased before the lockdown is Bitcoin. I am also planning to get an Ather 450x scooter.”

7 Workout Accessories To Help You Achieve Your Fitness Goals At Home

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With the outbreak of Covid-19, and the subsequent shutdown of most public spaces, including gyms, stay fit became a challenge. However, with the right motivation, and determination, this time at home provides the perfect opportunity for you to focus on your health and fitness, and achieve the body goals you always desired. What’s more, is that working out will help you feel happy and ensure your mind stays healthy.

To help you get started with a home fitness routine, here’s a list of workout accessories you require for a good home workout routine.