It has been more than a year now since working from home became the primary option due to the COVID-19 pandemic. All the times spent commuting, grabbing a coffee on the way to work, and having boardroom huddles seem like a distant past suddenly.
While there are many advantages to working from home like flexibility, schedule laxity, more rest time, and low-pressure work environments, it can be difficult and have negative effects on the physical and mental health of workers today.
There are no fixed rules for dealing with stress when working from home, but here are some of the most effective to make sure that you reduce the stress of working at home:
1. Make concrete plans
Working from home can be flexible, but it takes away the effective routine of working at the office. This means that you must be responsible for setting a working schedule and planning your time properly.
Choose times to work when the home is most quiet, with the least distractions and people around. The quietest times are meant for the most difficult and time-consuming tasks on your plate.
When the big tasks are out of the way, there’s less pressure to complete the rest when the family is back, and you’re juggling between spreadsheets and Legos.
2. Don’t neglect your social life
You still have friends and even though you’re not going to the office, make sure to keep in touch with your workmates, housemates, close friends, and family.
Meeting with your people will help you deliver an energy boost, which will in turn make you more productive over time. Take time away from the desk and call someone instead of chatting with them via Slack or Teams.
You can also plan virtual tea breaks with your colleagues and catch up just like you would in the office.
3. Rest and sleep are important
One of the best things about working at the office is you must leave at the end of the day. When your work is at home with you, it is difficult to disconnect and sleep.
Prioritize getting a good night’s sleep so that you can work better during the day. It also helps to make it difficult for you to get drowsy during the day. Unwind at night, practice good sleeping hygiene, and watch your stress levels reduce drastically.
4. Take good care of yourself
You’re your best friends, and making sure you understand your body’s limit is important to reducing your stress levels.
Eat healthy, drink plenty of water. Assess your week and take the cost of your work-life balance. Take walks, do nothing for about 30 minutes every day and make sure you take care of your body, soul, and mind.
5. Learn how to say no
During your work hours, your housemates will send you requests because you are physically present. Ensure that they know you are at work and should not be disturbed.
Outside of emergencies, learn how to say no to mundane, distracting tasks that will slowly mess up your schedule and make it difficult for you to work efficiently.
