How to Not Lose Your Mind While Working From Home
We are collectively muddling through a very tough time as COVID-19 (coronavirus) sweeps its way across our planet. If you are like the millions of Americans fortunate enough to hang onto a job during this crisis, you are either an employee of an essential business or you are able to move your work from the office to the comfort of your home. I know many aren’t so lucky and have been let go of or are waiting indefinitely to become employed again, and my heart goes out to you! I know together, we will all get through this. And a special shout out to those in essential businesses, especially those healthcare workers putting themselves at risk to care for those in need. You are my heroes!
So, working from home... the ultimate goal, right? I know many (my husband included) that are thrilled to have the opportunity to work from home. No commute, all the comforts you need, your loved ones around, and pjs are optional. On the other side, working from home isn’t always as glamorous as you think- at least that has been my experience. It has some definite pitfalls and working around these are essential to working from home successfully. Here are my tips for keeping your sanity while at home:
Establish a Routine and Stick to It
This is obvious, but important. Having a set time that you are “in the office” is your first step. Let those living with you know when you plan to work so they can help eliminate need and distraction. If you were not working from home prior to the pandemic, it’s important to keep the same routine you had before- get up at the same time, do your home workout, eat, shower, etc. and then get started on your work at your designated time. Perhaps, this is even an opportunity for you to create these healthy and productive parts of your morning routine prior to working. Never too late to start developing healthier habits to jump start your energy.
2. Create Space
Having an ideal work space is very important. You don’t have to have a home office to have a successful work from home environment. A desk kitchen table will do. Set up your space with all the essentials you need. Remove unnecessary clutter from your work area and light a candle or put out some fresh flowers for a calm, productive vibe. And if nothing else, avoid working on your couch or your bed, like the plague! These are death traps sure to convince you of an innocent cat nap. Just say no!
3. Get Fresh Air and Movement
As a work from home veteran, I can attest to you that when you are at home, you are not as inclined to take breaks. So guilty! I will be marathon working for 8 hours without hardly getting up. This is neither productive or healthy, so now I have mandatory breaks every couple of hours to keep me sane. Get up, move your body, go OUTSIDE! My go to break of choice is a walk around the block. Grab some water, a snack and unplug for 10-15 mins.
4. Eliminate Distractions
Distractions are a huge drawback to working from home and can be a huge contributor to procrastination. Our presumed flawless ability to multi task while at home is distorted and can get us into trouble. Trust me on this one! The house work and other things waiting for you around the house really can wait while you’re “at the office.” I know the piles of laundry and dirty dishes in the sink are calling your name, but don’t give in. Leave them for later! Other distractions can come in the form of people, so like I mentioned above, set some clear expectations so everyone can respect your work environment and even better, if you are in a room with a door, close it while you are at work! If you are working with children at home and no one else to help supervise them, first, I applaud you for this, and second, include them in your routine building with activities planned to keep them occupied while you work.
5. Include Your Pet
If your pet is anything like my miniature schnauzer, they won’t leave your side. You can’t shut them out of the room without the consequence of whimpering or howling- oh, so sad! More and more workplaces are including dogs in on the fun, so this should be no different at home! Set them up with you with their bed and some water and toys. Let them curl up on your lap and you will both reap the benefits of relaxation and peace of mind. Plus, they just make the best coworkers!
6. Exercise & Choose Healthy Eats
If you don’t have an exercise routine, start one! This can be as simple as just walking your neighborhood. A good exercise routine in the morning can give you more energy throughout the day and help you to stay sharp and alert. In addition to this, choosing healthy things to eat will keep you from feeling the crash and brain fog. Eat lighter foods that don’t weigh you down and choose water- avoid those sugar crashes.
7. Meditate
One of my favorite ways to take a break is to meditate. I know, I know- there’s this stigma with meditation that it’s lame, or hard, or too new age-y, but hear me out- there is extensive research supporting that even a few minutes of meditation can increase your productivity. It is incredibly effective for managing stress. Got anxiety?! (raises hand slowly) It’s a lifeline for this and proven to be one of the best ways to calm the mind and body, lower blood pressure, and lots more. It’s a tried and true way of unplugging from the constant barrage of thoughts and worry that accompany a typical work day. And in this time, it’s even more important than ever as we deal with the uncertainty of a pandemic. So, set aside some time everyday- even multiple times a day, if you are able, to sit still and focus on your breath. Thoughts will come up. Just label them “thinking,” then gently bring your attention back to the tip of your nose, where you feel the breath draw in and out. This is the basis of meditation! It’s so, so simple, but not too easy at first, but stick to it- the benefits are many! If you need help meditating, I listed my favorite meditation apps below. Some are even offering free subscriptions right now! Of course, you can always search YouTube, where a ton of guided meditation videos await.
So, there you have it! I hope you find these tips helpful- I know they are helpful to me and I live by them and even more now considering what is going on. Stay safe and smart my friends, and take care of each other.
Angela
