Mental health and work often go hand in hand together. Working from home seems to be doing wonders for most home workers, however, it can also have its pitfalls too. Learn how to spot when you feel you can start to feel yourself go downhill and try these simple yet effective tips to give you a boost when working from home.
Set and Stick to a Routine
A morning routine before you start working from home can do wonders for your mental health.
- Have a shower and get dressed for the day. As tempting as it may be to roll out of bed two minutes before you start work, it’s important to make yourself feel you’re going into the office to stay motivated and focused. Not only does a shower in the morning help to wake you up, but it’s one of the only times of the day when you’re not tied down to a gadget and your mind is free to relax and reflect.
- Use your previous commute time wisely and create time for doing the things you love. Whether that is reading a book, exercising, or keeping your house tidy for mental clarity, your favourite activities are bound to set you up for a great day ahead.
- Have a hearty breakfast to fuel yourself for the day. Breakfast can give you the energy you need to propel yourself through the morning. Although it may be easier to eat the most convenient and tasty snack, a balanced diet is necessary to keep your brain ticking – your mind and body will thank you!
- Make a to-do list and set your goals for the day. Setting out achievable goals can keep you motivated and gives you small objectives to complete, which naturally feels good and you know you’re smashing your way through it.
Ensure Your Environment Is Right
Create a space you love, even a few small touches like having plants and a tidy workspace can work wonders in boosting productivity and motivation.
Research shows that when people in these “lean” workspaces are compared to people working in “enriched” spaces that have art, plants, and more sensorial stimulation, the workers in the enriched spaces are 15% more productive. And productivity increases to 32% if workers have control over the placement of things in their workspace.
Make sure your workspace is comfortable to alleviate stress and discomfort. Having a proper desk, laptop stand, and ergonomic chair can make your workday more pleasant and in the long run, you won’t endure any work-related physical problems, such as eye strain or stress from discomfort.
Have a Dedicated Workspace
Having a separate area where you relax, and sleep is fundamental to switching off from work. If space is an issue, then this can prove to be tricky. However, home offices aren’t a necessity to get the best out of working from home. Setting up a small desk area in your living room or setting up a base on your kitchen table will do the trick!
Getting distracted can often leave you feeling guilty at the end of a workday. Having a dedicated workspace where distractions are at bay means you’re more likely to leave work feeling productive and happy! Minimizing yourself from distractions, such as televisions, housemates and pets are crucial to ensure you get the best out of your working day. Just because you’re working from home doesn’t mean it’s the same as when you’re relaxing at home. Others that you live with should respect this. Set clear boundaries with them and yourself, so that you don’t get distracted by their company and can work in peace.
Connect With Colleagues
Connecting with your colleagues can feel slightly more difficult when you don’t see them daily in the office. However, it doesn’t mean that it’s not possible. Make small simple changes to your daily routine to ensure you’re getting the human contact that you need!
- Instead of emailing your colleague, why not try video calling them? This is a great way to ensure you’re still getting the support you need, whilst also being able to discuss the topic in further detail.
- Short catch-up and check-in calls with managers are essential to ensure you’re staying on track and are up to date with your work.
- Some may find they feel lonely when working from home, especially those who live by themselves, so it’s vital you satisfy those conversation cravings!
Take Breaks
Due to the fewer distractions when working from home, it can be easy to get carried away and lose track of time. However, working yourself to the bone isn’t the best for your mental health.
It’s important to take regular breaks and get away from your screen. Utilize your lunch hour and take a break from the screen. One of the beauties of working from home is that you can tend to your errands, walk your dog, or do whatever you choose to do to give your eyes and brain a rest.
Get Fresh Air
We all have different experiences of nature, and we all have our own reasons for wanting to connect with it. Whilst we all have our differences, the one thing that stays the same is the positive effects on your mind. Getting out in nature has proven benefits that improve your mental and physical well-being. Whether you choose to walk your dog, escape from your city’s hustle and bustle, or simply to unwind, it’s crucial you still spent time taking in the outdoors and fresh air.
Remote working is here to stay, so it’s vital to practice self-care. By setting and maintaining healthy boundaries you’ll avoid slipping into harmful habits and will remain happy, healthy, and focused.
