_edited.jpg)
Remote work/learning environments have become increasingly relevant due to the COVID lockdown and have remained due to people’s desire for flexibility and the ability to stay closer to family. However, work-life balance has become an issue for those who were not prepared for rapid change.
Stay-at-home orders forced employees to work remotely, and the pandemic “did not take into consideration individual traits or organizational culture—all tasks that could be performed remotely were to be performed that way regardless of the employee’s ability to cope with social isolation or of the employer’s culture” [1]. This type of situation can lead to overworking, increased family expectations, and a blurred line between work and home life.
So how do we stay positive within this forced environment?
Using designated spaces within the household for different activities is one way to dispel negativity. A dedicated workspace within the home can promote fewer distractions, which will help you focus on the work that needs to be done. It can also allow you a space to enter when you have to work and exit when you don’t have to work. Keeping your work out of sight when you’re going about your daily routine can help to put your work stress at ease.
Another important thing to implement is a schedule. Waking up is still a part of the job for most, and sometimes working at home can alter your sleep schedule. It’s important to get enough rest so your work is not immediately associated with negativity upon waking up. Also, you can schedule your workday out! Plan what you need to do for the day and go through that checklist. It will make it easier for you, to see each task get marked off, and not have to wrack your brain for what needs to be done.
Journaling is another great way to relieve stress. It is important to take care of your mental health, and journaling can help you to get your feelings down. If you are able to, “practice writing in a positive tone and you’ll start adopting that tone in your day-to-day life” [2]. You can also vent, as it is an outlet to let yourself be true to your emotions.
If you notice that these tips do not help and you still feel depressed with the state of your work-home life, it is always okay to seek help whether it be your family, a support group, or a therapist. It is always recommended to reach out before your mental health gets worse, so don’t be afraid to reach out and seek help when you need it.
There are tons of other ways to gain a positive outlook on your work-home life with the right research. In the end, it is always important to take care of yourself first!
References:
1. Sandoval-Reyes J, Idrovo-Carlier S, Duque-Oliva EJ. Remote Work, Work Stress, and Work–Life during Pandemic Times: A Latin America Situation. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2021; 18(13):7069. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18137069
2. Severance, K. (2022, August 10). How to stay positive when working from home. Check City. Retrieved November 15, 2022, from https://www.checkcity.com/career-and-business/how-to-stay-positive-when-working-from-home
Contributors:
Author: Kayjah Taylor
Editor: Liam Lynch
Health scientist: Marjorie Sy
Comments