Many people dreamt of having a remote professional position. They assumed that working from home would be easier than trekking to the office. However, as virtual background teams become the new normal, many workers are realizing the reality of working from home is not as dreamy as it initially seemed. The lines between personal and professional lives become increasingly blurred when your office is also your home.
Many workers find remote work challenging. They find it challenging to meet deadlines and maintain professional connections. Many also feel disconnected from employers and underappreciated.
If your employer currently allows you to work from home, you need to focus on your mental health. With the appropriate tools and techniques, you can limit the negative effects of working alone, allowing for improved focus and productivity.
How To Take Productivity Breaks While Working Remotely
While people are getting used to backgrounds for Google Meet and virtual meetings, many still struggle to find the right balance between work and life. While it is easy to say you should lock yourself in a room for your standard eight-hour shift, that is not the most productive way to handle your time.
According to several studies, allowing productivity breaks will actually increase your overall productivity. Essentially, you want to work anywhere between 60 and 90 minutes and then take a break for 15 to 17 minutes. While it might seem counterintuitive, giving your mind and body a chance to relax after a period of intense work actually improves drive and focus. The tactic is especially beneficial for remote workers.
Routine When Work Is Over
While you can spend some of your free time finding a virtual office background with logo, your free time must be spent on the things you love and wish to do. However, even when clocked out of the office, routines are beneficial for mental health. When the brain has routines to follow, it is less stressed; therefore, it releases less cortisol into the bloodstream. Essentially, routines help the body relax and can improve mental health.
Remembering To Have Fun
Finally, remember that your entire life cannot be about work. You need to look beyond the office to find purpose and meaning in life. Look beyond the timeclock to find joy and peace.
When was the last time you went camping or took a vacation with family or friends? While the brain thrives on routine, the body thrives on fun and connection. The more fun you have, the more endorphins your body releases, leading to greater joy.
Your physical and mental health is more important than any job title. When working from home, you must take great strides to ensure a separation between your job and personal life. Allowing the lines to blur will only result in further stress and potentially depression and regret. If you do not understand how to create healthy boundaries between your job and family, you should take the time to consult with a remote work professional.
