With the pandemic waning and many areas reopening for business, companies are navigating the intricacies of remote work versus in-person workplaces. While some employees prefer to go back to the physical office, a large portion of the working population has decided to continue in a remote capacity; either out of necessity or by preference -Post-Pandemic
Employees who were suddenly thrown into remote work–and even those who had previously chosen to work from home–were left to contend with a whole host of challenges. Whether it was children staying home from school, partners working from home as well, or simply a loss of routines, remote workers have had to contend with high levels of stress and anxiety.
It can be difficult to keep healthy boundaries between home and work life when your work is always present in your home space. This is a recipe for feeling burned out.
Working from home is here to stay, but workers and employers need to be vigilant and avoid WFH burnout. Striking a balance between productivity and mental/emotional health is possible for remote workers; here are a few tips to help you avoid burning out and take care of your mental health.
Create a Schedule and Set Boundaries (Post-Pandemic)
Although your employer may not set a rigid schedule, it’s important to give yourself a set start and end time to your day. Outside of those hours, maintain strict boundaries to protect your home life; turn off your computer, shut the door to your workspace, turn off notifications for work email, etc. Having a set routine, even if it’s one you make for yourself, will help you keep your work and home time separate. Having set boundaries will also help your brain switch over and focus fully on what matters at the moment, whether that is spending time with your family or knocking out a tough task. Fixed work hours will also allow you to more easily set boundaries with your boss and coworkers.
Don’t forget to schedule in breaks! You can easily get lost in going from one task to the next without pausing to rest, reflect and breathe. Breaks are crucial for allowing your brain and body to work optimally. It’s also important to ease the stress of working from time to time by taking a 10-minute walk, sitting down to reflect on your day, or having a short conversation with a family member or friend. If you want this time to truly be refreshing, be careful not to look at your phone or answer any emails!
Make Time For Yourself- Preferably Outside
Fresh air will do wonders for your mood, and even improve your productivity! Studies have shown that getting fresh air promotes better decision-making and improved information processing; a short walk (or even opening a window) is an excellent way to boost productivity while also working on your wellness.
Making time to practice a hobby or simply practice self-care is also important for mental health. Perhaps that means squeezing a quick workout in before work starts, or doing a short meditation every weekday morning to recenter yourself. Post-Pandemic Setting time aside every day to do something that gives you joy and peace will have a positive impact on the rest of your day; you’ll have more energy and better focus for the day ahead. This ‘you-time’ goes a long way in establishing a healthy balance.
Take Time Off
On average, people who work from home are putting in three more hours of work each day compared to their pre-pandemic workday. This is often chalked up to those fuzzy boundaries around the work schedule, but regardless,( Post-Pandemic ) the result is the same: remote workers need a break. It’s important to regularly take time off, whether that’s using your vacation time or taking a personal day to disconnect and recharge.
Allowing yourself this “off” time means you’ll come back to work refreshed and ready to tackle whatever is thrown your way.
Set The News Aside
Too much exposure to negative news can bring up your stress and anxiety levels–and let’s face it, most of the news nowadays is far from rosy. If you want to keep your head in the game and avoid undue anxiety, catch up on the news once or twice a week and outside of work hours.
Ask For Help
Despite all your efforts to set boundaries, create a routine, and slot in self-care, working from home and dealing with the post-pandemic shifts can take a toll. There are still a lot of things going on that you may be worried about: finances, family, your health, the economy. If you are feeling overwhelmed and worn out, reach out to a coworker, friend, human resources team, or an Employee Assistance Plan for support. Make the most of those resources to avoid burning out.
Achieving work-life balance is possible, even if you’re a remote worker. It just requires some strict boundaries and putting your mental health as a priority.
Looking for IT ideas and support? OnSite Geeks is a team of dedicated experts in the IT and marketing fields. Contact us and we’ll be happy to chat about your business needs.
BLURB:
Employees who were suddenly thrown into remote work–and even those who had previously chosen to work from home–were left to contend with a whole host of challenges. Whether it was children staying home from school, partners working from home as well or simply a loss of routines, remote workers have had to contend with high levels of stress and anxiety. -Post-Pandemic
Striking a balance between productivity and mental/emotional health is possible for remote workers; head over to our blog to find tips on how you can avoid burning out while taking care of your mental health. Follow on: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn