Many workers were unaware of the reality of indefinite distant employment in the early phases of COVID-19. The setup may have seemed great at first: no commute, all-day sweatpants, and a respite from going into the workplace. However, as the pandemic drags on with no end in sight, weariness and stress have become major concerns for many remote workers.
At-home employees rely on their computers and phones to keep connected rather than in-person contacts or discussions. It's not only at work: the pandemic has pushed many relationships to rely exclusively on technology to remain in touch, and it's costing them dearly in terms of their mental health.
It is no surprise that employees are trying desperately to reduce the sheer brunt of the stay-at-home fatigue caused by remote work and finding practical solutions for this burnout.
Reducing home fatigue caused by remote work
Create a routine and engage in good self-care
Establish a routine that aids in the efficient and successful completion of tasks. For some, this entails reorganizing their home office space. Others are concerned with creating a new routine. When working remotely, it's critical to establish realistic boundaries so that employees don't feel like they're on the clock.
Burnout may be significantly reduced or avoided entirely by prioritizing breaks. Staying engaged with social networks, such as business resource groups and work support groups on platforms like Instagram and Facebook, should also be part of your daily routine.
Meetings should only be scheduled when absolutely required
When you do need to plan a meeting, take the risk of cutting the overall meeting duration in half. One-hour meetings should be cut to 45-50 minutes. Maintain brevity and clarity in the conversations among attendees.
Attendees can take short breaks in between meetings if sessions are kept to less than an hour. It may take a few sessions to get into the swing of things, but it will pay off in the long run.
Staying inside all day is not a good idea
If the weather permits, take a stroll or eat lunch outside during your lunch break. Food tastes better outside for some unexplained culinary reason, but don't have lunch at your desk even if you aren't in the mood for dining out. Take a breather and savor your meal.
Take some time to unplug
While remote work has saved many hours of commute time, many people are experiencing lengthier workdays. Maybe it's an attempt to have some control over anything in an uncertain year, but working nonstop will eventually lead to burnout and have adverse impacts on employee's physical and mental healths. Spend time away from work to keep engaged, communicate with people, and relax.
Keep your social ties strong
COVID-19 has resulted in severe isolation fatigue.
Remember to connect in other ways as you physically separate yourself from people. Set up a Zoom gaming night with friends to catch up or drop off a home-cooked meal for your loved ones. Remote work will not go away once the epidemic has passed. It'll be around for a long time.