Because of the coronavirus pandemic, lots of people are now working from home. It has its perks—like not having to commute and being able to wear sweatpants all day—but it can also be really stressful. The lines between work and home start to blur, and it can be hard to focus or even take a break.
If you’re working from home and finding it stressful, here are some tips to help you out:
- Establish a work schedule
Just because you’re working from home doesn’t mean you can lounge around in your PJs all day. Get up at a reasonable time, shower, and get dressed as if you’re going to an office. This will help put you in the right mindset for work.
Then, establish set working hours. Let your family and friends know when you’re working so they don’t bother you, and try to stick to a regular schedule as much as possible.
- Create a comfortable workspace
Your home office should be a place where you can focus and get work done. That means it should be comfortable, well-lit, and free from distractions. If you can, set up your office in a separate room so you can close the door when you need to concentrate.
- Take breaks frequently
When you’re working from home, it’s important to take breaks often. Get up and stretch your legs, grab a snack, or take a walk around the block. This will help you clear your head and come back to work feeling refreshed.
- Disconnect from work when you’re done for the day
At the end of the workday, make sure you disconnect from work. Close your laptop, shut off your phone, and take some time to relax. This will help you avoid feeling like you’re always working and stressed out. You can also try meditating or doing some other relaxation exercises to help you wind down.
- Go out with friends/family
Make sure to schedule some time for socializing, even if you can’t go out like you used to. Have a virtual happy hour with your friends, or have a movie night with your family. If you live alone, make sure to reach out to your friends and family often. Socializing will help you de-stress and feel connected to other people.
- Exercise
Exercise is a great way to reduce stress. Even if you can’t go to the gym, there are plenty of ways to get some exercise at home. Take a yoga class online, go for a run around your neighborhood, or try a workout video. You’ll feel better physically and mentally after getting some exercise.
- Work somewhere else
If you’re finding it hard to focus at home, try working somewhere else. Go to a coffee shop, work at the library, or even just sit in your backyard. Getting out of the house can help you feel less stressed and more productive. Have a plan for where you’ll work ahead of time so you’re not scrambling to find a place at the last minute.
- Get organized
If you’re feeling stressed because you can’t find anything, get organized. Create a system for where you’ll put your work materials, and make sure everything has a home. This will help you feel more in control and less stressed. You can even try using a planner to help you keep track of your work tasks.
- Take care of yourself
When you’re feeling stressed, it’s important to take care of yourself. Make sure you’re eating healthy meals, getting enough sleep, and taking breaks when you need them. This will help you feel better physically and mentally, and it will make it easier to deal with stress.
- Talk to someone
If you’re feeling really stressed, talk to someone about it. You can talk to a friend, family member, therapist, or any other support system. This can help you feel better and might give you some ideas for how to cope with stress.
Working from home can be a great way to avoid the stress of a crowded office, but it can also be a source of its own stress if you’re not careful. By following these tips, you can manage your stress and make working from home a more enjoyable experience.