A Guide to Managing Stress When Working Remotely
However, working from home still provides its own set of difficulties resulting in work-related stress. Getting accustomed to remote work can bring to light certain unpleasantries as the initial excitement subsides. Here are six practical ways how to reduce stress while working from home:
1. Set up a comfortable workspace
The line between work and personal life becomes blurred when working from home. This happens when you have no boundary separating your personal and professional life in an environment where you feel at home. Unlike working on-site where you can unplug from work once you’re out of the office, most remote employees find it challenging to know when you’re supposed to be “on” or “off” work.
Setting up a separate office place, away from your family, can help you keep a clear line between work and home life. Creating your workspace gives you a place to get your thoughts in a productive state. Put a desk calendar on your table to help you keep track of important dates, meetings, and tasks. With just a glance, you are less likely to miss important events or feel overwhelmed by the work.
Having an organized work desk at home also helps to put your mind into work mode. Place your pens, notepads, and other work tools in their respective storage box organizers to avoid clutter. By doing this, you’re keeping yourself from getting distracted by the mess, and it’s easy to get the tools you need.
If you don't have much room, you could work in a neighborhood library or café to make a physical difference. This ensures you have a clear place to work and set hours.
2. Establish clear working hours
Working too much can lead to stress and burnout. Remember, longer hours do not necessarily equate to a better job and it's okay to set boundaries. Set boundaries based on your schedule and workload, ensuring you don't overextend yourself. Be clear about your working hours with your boss, team, or clients, and avoid taking on more tasks than you can handle.
3. Stay Physically Active
Remote workers may be less active when working at home than office workers. You don't stroll to the bus stop, eat lunch, use the stairs, or visit co-workers. Unless you have a workout session in your daily schedule, sitting on your office chair for long hours is bad for your health.
It is best to incorporate physical activities into your daily routine, even if it's just a short walk or stretching exercises during your break. Physical movement can boost your mood and overall well-being. Moreover, staying physically active provides a valuable distraction from work-related problems, allowing you to take a mental break and return to your tasks with renewed focus.
4. Address technical problems
Working Gone are the days of having a tech support colleague just down the hall to assist you with computer or internet issues. This shift can result in various challenges, such as experiencing a poor internet connection, computer crashes, software problems, or even losing important files. These issues can be particularly overwhelming and stressful when you’re working on a task with a deadline.
Having a stable internet connection at home is crucial, especially for those working from home. Invest in pocket Wi-Fi if you plan to work remotely from a cafe or restaurant. It’s also important to discuss with your supervisor or team the efficient alternative to communicate when such technical difficulties arise during work hours.
5. Minimize distractions
Working from home often presents a myriad of potential distractions, ranging from household chores to barking dogs, and construction noise. These interruptions create a disruptive atmosphere making it challenging to maintain a consistent and concentrated work pace.
Create a quiet and focused environment by using noise-canceling headphones or finding a space away from disturbances. Invest in wireless bluetooth earphones or earbuds that you can use to focus on work without being disrupted by external sounds. Enjoy increased productivity and a sense of calm as you work in a distraction-free zone. Maximize uninterrupted work, free from the stress-inducing effects of external noise.
6. Find motivation
If you’re feeling like you have no motivation to work, you might be experiencing burnout and exhaustion. Lack of motivation is common for everyone who’s working on-site and remotely. This can lead to poor focus and stress, and may even affect your co-workers.
To maintain motivation while working remotely, it's helpful to break tasks into smaller, achievable steps and reward yourself upon completion. Check off completed tasks from your to-do list so you feel a sense of accomplishment. Reciting positive affirmations can also help to boost your mood and confidence.
Don’t forget to take a well-deserved break to relax and recharge. Do some of your hobbies during lunch or break time like painting or making doodles. It would relax your mind and help you recharge for work. Take for example Artheraphy’s paint-by-numbers kit.
It is critical to appropriately manage stress while working remotely to retain well-being and productivity. You can easily handle the specific obstacles of remote work by following methods such as establishing routines, setting boundaries, creating an appropriate workspace, practicing self-care, and seeking help.
Remember to prioritize your mental and physical wellness to thrive in your remote work environment. Learn how to promote mental health awareness in remote work settings so you can share it with your colleagues.
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