Remote working: how to support your wellbeing
The world of work has changed. Individuals are embracing the work-from-anywhere approach and moving away from the conventional 9 to 5 office setup. While the model reaps great rewards for workers and employers collectively, it’s intrinsic to maintain a work-life balance. Navigating the challenges of frequent distractions, Zoom fatigue and the temptation of checking your work email post-shift (to name a few), can pave the way for burnout, work-related stress and overwork. With the right strategies, however, you can make a successful transition to this working environment, making it more productive and less stressful. Here’s a few ways to enhance wellbeing and productivity when working remotely.
Know your style
The linear day is not the only way to get work done. Every person has their own working style and life situation. Taking this into account can help you set up a productive environment and reasonable boundaries. Do you work better in the morning, afternoon or evening? Maybe you have to drop off and pick up the kids at certain times of the day. The beauty of flexible working means you can adapt to your specific work profile and lifestyle circumstances to make the most of your time. Productivity isn’t about working long hours, it’s about working smart. If your peak productivity time is during the afternoon, optimise that. There’s no need to guilt trip yourself for not being at the computer at 9am every morning. Instead, shift your mindset and use the mornings to run errands, prioritise self-care or carry out household chores. In the afternoon, you can really hone in on whatever work you need to do. You’re more likely to get it done quicker and to a better standard than if you started in the morning because you’re at your most productive state.
Use productivity tools
Author and remote working lecturer, Anastasia Tohmé recommends tried and tested productivity methods such as the Pomodoro technique. The Pomodoro method is a time management system where you work with the time you have in order to ease workload and stress. It works by segmenting your day into 25 minute chunks separated by 5 minute breaks. These intervals are known as pomodoros. You can use the Tomato Timer to remind you when to stop and start. After four 25 minute sessions, increase your breaks from 15 - 30 minutes. Using methods like this can help you manage your time better, increase work turnover and reduce the risk of burnout.
Plan, organise and execute
Having control over your workplace and your work pace is imperative for reducing stress. Streamline your days by jotting down your daily tasks, reminders, events and priorities. When you have a clear overview of what needs completed, you can break down each task and allocate it to your calendar or diary. This is a wonderful way of getting things done without overwhelming yourself. It also allows you to work on the important stuff and manage your time efficiently. As you complete tasks, tick them off as you go - there’s no better feeling!
Have a break
Working at home can make us feel like we need to be constantly available. However, it’s important to set boundaries and take regular breaks so you can recharge. Go for a walk, stretch your body, water the plants or bring the dog out. A short meditation is a wonderful signal to the brain to rest. Whatever you do, be sure to take a break and stop working. Allowing yourself to reset your mind and energy levels throughout the day with short breaks is key to staying engaged at work. Remember to designate meal and snack times away from the laptop too - not only is it healthy, it encourages mindful eating and promotes good digestion. To remind you when to reset, a personal alarm or the Tomato Timer can also be utilised here.
Take time off
Speaking of breaks, it’s important to take time off work. Your business and work will benefit from a rested brain. Working without having enough time off is extremely stressful and makes you more vulnerable to burnout. Designate yourself a certain amount of days off. If you’re a freelancer, plan it well in advance around particular projects. A rested brain ensures better concentration, reduced stress levels and promotes a better work-life balance.
Set up a workspace
If your home is your office, instead of working at the kitchen table, designate a particular space or corner in your home where you can work. It will provide you with a stronger sense of being at work while limiting distractions. It also means when your workday is done, you can leave that space (even if it’s in the corner of the room) and enjoy your personal space. Separating your work from your home life shouldn’t be overlooked.
Care for yourself
All forms of exercise, whether it be physical or mental, promote wellbeing. Mindfulness activities such as meditation, qi-gong or journaling can help combat negative thoughts and reduce anxiety. Over time they enable you to reframe your emotions and handle conflict or stressful situations in a more positive way. Together with regular exercise like running, pilates, yoga, swimming or HIIT workouts, you can reduce your stress levels and tension within the body. Find what works for you. Even a brisk walk has the ability to boost energy levels, mood and mental alertness. Taking care of yourself in terms of healthy eating, getting enough sleep, movement and mindfulness are intrinsic to helping you feel better in general.
For more tips, watch Ora Collective’s online session with Anastasia Tohmé: Wellbeing and success in a remote working environment” and learn more about productivity tools, allocating tasks and the importance of routine.