Home; Work Well
By Jo Phillips
How to improve your work from home routine.
Working from home has numerous benefits. You can spend less time commuting on the train, and more time at home with your family. After the pandemic, many companies have abandoned their offices and resorted to full-time remote work. However, many people struggle with the loneliness of remote work and its impact on their mental wellbeing.
McKinsey and Co conducted a survey to investigate the future of working from home. They found that almost half of remote employees are burnt out from working too much. Communication has been a huge challenge for companies working from home. It’s difficult to switch off at the end of the day and spend some quality time relaxing. We struggle to separate work and home life when they are both under the same roof.
Here are a few ways to improve your well-being while working from home.
Don’t check your phone in bed
Everyone knows scrolling before bed is a bad idea – but we do it anyway. Try putting your phone on the other side of the room, and read a book instead. Alternatively, you could listen to an audiobook or podcast as you fall asleep. The blue screen light stimulates your brain and keeps you awake far past your bedtime.
Exercise
Exercise is always a good idea. If you’re used to a morning commute before work, you could do some light exercise at home instead. Some people like to walk around the block before sitting down at the desk. Get your blood pumping and endorphins circling before you start the working day.
Set some boundaries
Boundaries are essential for remote workers. For example, you could decide only to work at your desk and never in bed. Your bed should be a place of relaxation and comfort. Leave your stress at the desk, and switch off at the end of the day.
You also need emotional boundaries, like not taking work calls after 5 pm. Many people don’t have their work emails on their personal phone. It stops you from casually scrolling through your inbox when you should be spending time with the family. You could keep the door closed to your home office on weekends. You are not allowed to sit down for an hour of work here and there on the weekend.
Stay in touch
Working from home can make you feel isolated and anxious. Book in some weekly check-ins with your team and arrange to do fun things over zoom. You should try to get outside at least once a day – and schedule to see your friends in the evening. Social contact is important, and it will keep you from working into the evening. Use HR software to stay in touch with your company, and report any issues you may be having.
Set clear boundaries for yourself so you can maintain a healthy work-life balance.
If you enjoyed reading Home Work Well then why not read Small Living Spaces Here
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