12 May How to Maintain a WorkLife Balance When Working From Home
No matter if you are working from home due to the COVID-19 crisis or you’ve been working remotely long before the pandemic began, there are many benefits to working from home. For example, you don’t have a long commute to endure or the daily distractions from co-workers, and you can work in the comfiest chair in your house. However, maintaining a work/life balance when you don’t leave your house can be a challenge.
When working remotely, it’s easy to work a little longer each day to get ahead or to slip into your home office just to check a few emails. You may feel immense pressure to fill your free time with work-related tasks. Unfortunately, when you begin to make your work projects a priority during unscheduled hours, you are at a higher risk of burning out. It can also increase your stress levels and take time away from family and social events.
To improve your work/life balance when working from home, implement one (or all) of these tips.
Stick to a Schedule
When maintaining a strong work/life balance, establish a work schedule and stick to it. If you have mandatory office hours, make sure you follow them closely. When the day is done, shut off your computer and walk away until the next business day.
If you have flexible hours, strive to set your own hours. This will help you stay motivated, avoid procrastinating, and improve your time management.
Turn Off Notifications
It can be difficult to avoid work when you receive constant notifications throughout the evening hours. Once your workday is complete, turn off all notifications on your mobile devices, desktop computer, etc. You should also close your email applications to prevent the constant flow of messages each time you log into your device.
Establish a Dedicated Home Office
If you are completing your work from the couch in your living room, it can be hard to change the mindset of whether you are at work or at home. To improve your work/life balance, establish a dedicated home office. This not only limits distractions but it increases your productivity and motivation each time you sit down.
If you do not have space in your home for an office, clear out a corner where you could place a card table and a chair. Try to work in the same area each day, rather than move around your home.
Exercise Before or After Work
Sometimes, it can help to maintain a strong work/life balance if you can transition from a work to home mindset. One way to do this is to exercise before starting your office hours or immediately following them. You don’t have to perform an intense exercise but a quick walk around the block will help you better transition your mind to your next environment.
Maintaining a work/life balance when working remotely is something that will take time and energy. You must make a conscientious effort to separate your work and home life to keep your stress levels low, better relax, and to enjoy every aspect of your life.
