With the normal stresses of daily life, it can be challenging to stay mentally well while working from home. Now with the COVID-19 pandemic, working remotely has become more difficult. From not being able to have physical contact with peers, friends, and family to not being able to engage in your favorite outdoor activities, staying cooped up in the house is enough to make anyone question their sanity. Here are a few ways to help you cope while working remotely.
3 WAYS TO MAINTAIN YOUR MENTAL HEALTH WHILE WORKING FROM HOME
1. STAY CONNECTED
Even if you do live with a partner or family, you may still miss connecting with the outside world. To combat this, communicate with your friends and family, even if it is through a Zoom or FaceTime call. Text someone you care about and talk to them about making plans when restrictions are lifted in your area. Connecting with others is key to maintaining your mental health when you're home for long stretches at a time.
2. CREATE ROUTINES
When working from home, you may be missing the structure you need to smoothly get through the day. You can get this structure back by sticking to a routine. So make sure you have a system for waking up on time, getting ready, and getting your work done in a timely manner. You don't have to stick to a traditional 9 to 5 schedule, but you at least need some type of routine.
3. SET BOUNDARIES
To stay mentally well while working from home, be sure to set boundaries for yourself. Shut your computer down after your designated work hours. If you have to, turn off email notifications until morning. This will allow you to focus on yourself and rest for the rest of the day. That way, you'll be refreshed and rejuvenated for the next workday. The same rules apply when you are working. Stay away from social media and other distractions while you're on the clock.
Working from home can be just as–if not more–stressful as working in the office. This is why it's so essential to take care of your mental health.