Avoiding Burnout as a Remote Worker: The Basics
• Tips
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to millions of new remote workers. While some businesses have begun to open their offices back up, others are planning to wait until 2021. And then there are the companies that have realized the benefits of utilizing a remote workforce and have decided to stick with it long-term.
Working from home comes with lots of benefits. But learning how to separate your work and personal life when they occur in the same place can also be especially stressful (not to mention lonely). Whether you’re telecommuting for the first time, working with TEFL UK, or are a long-time owner of a home-based business, it’s essential to be proactive about avoiding burnout. Here are some practical steps you can start taking today:
Keep a Clean Space
Working among clutter can cause serious stress and negative emotions and thoughts. It can hinder your productivity as well. Keep that from happening by taking the time to declutter, clean, and organize your workspace. After an initial deep cleaning, create a cleaning routine that helps you keep your workspace clean on a daily basis. By the way, you can also benefit from putting a cleaning routine in practice for the rest of your home!
Build a Routine
Routine is crucial when you’re working from home. Just because you don’t have to commute to an office doesn’t mean that you should stay in your PJs all day. To set yourself up for a productive workday, change your clothes, get a coffee, go for a run, and/or do anything else that works for you. Also, find work hours that fit your work needs and lifestyle. And be sure to leave the room for periodic breaks throughout the day.
Put Boundaries in Place
Boundaries are also essential. Dedicate a workspace that helps you to keep your work and personal life separate — creating a home office in a spare bedroom, garage, or basement is ideal because they provide a physical barrier between your workspace and primary living areas. Make sure your family understands that interruptions should be rare during your work hours.
Moreover, you need to set boundaries with yourself. It can be easy to get distracted when you’re solely responsible for your productivity. So limit TV, social media, and other forms of entertainment while you work. Be sure to physically and mentally clock out when your work hours are done for the day. Your workspace might be right down the hall, but you won’t find a healthy work-life balance unless you prioritize your life outside of work.
Stay Social
We live in the age of social distancing, but that doesn’t change the fact that we are social beings. Working from home can get lonely really fast. As much as possible, maintain your social life, whether that means going on weekend getaways with your family, doing safe activities with close friends, or video chatting with friends and loved ones.
Incorporate Self-Care
Lastly, take care of yourself. Incorporate habits in your routine that promote your all-around health and well-being, such as eating well, exercising, and getting plenty of sleep. And remember to relax! Be intentional about finding and maintaining activities that help you to unwind and destress — pursuing a hobby, meditating, and reading for pleasure are just a few of many ideas to consider.
Don’t let stress and loneliness overshadow the benefits of working from home. Maintain a clean workspace, develop a good routine, and establish boundaries with yourself and others. Try to keep a steady social life, and maintain habits that benefit your health and well-being. Implementing these tips will help you get the most out of your remote work.
Are you interested in teaching the English language from the comfort of your own home? Visit tefluk.com today!
Previously: Why Remote Work Is The Career Of The Future