There’s no doubt that one of the things 2020 changed was how the world viewed remote work. This unique form of employment stands as a culture that different businesses have adopted over the past few years. The freedom of remote work comes with a lot of perks.
These days, if there is no possibility for remote work, employees may even look for other positions. With this change, it’s vital to think about developing wholesome habits for working remotely. A significant part is the possibility of better caring for your physical and mental health.
Although working remotely or in a hybrid environment offers unparalleled flexibility, certain drawbacks may exist. Unhealthy work-life balance, communication difficulties, isolation, technological problems, and domestic distractions are a few of the difficulties faced by many remote workers.
To help you keep healthy while working remotely, we’ve chatted with five remote working professionals and compiled five of their practical suggestions that can direct you toward better choices and best practices as a remote worker. Join us as we take you on this eye-opening adventure.
Make a personal workspace
In an office, you may have your cubicle or area. This doesn’t hold at home—any space is open. Establishing and maintaining a functional and comfortable workspace that isn’t your bed is essential. You could pick a quiet area where you can shut the door and isolate yourself from outside distractions.
“Remote working is highly significant to my career. Much of what I do just requires good internet access and a convenient, if not creative, space to get things done,” says Iheoma Uzomba, a digital marketer and social media strategist.
That’s why I consider being able to get off the bed and take a seat at the table very important. It’s very easy to forget your tasks, lay in bed all day, and scroll through Instagram. However, when I’m able to get off the bed and take a seat at the table, my brain somewhat registers that it’s time to get serious work done.
Iheoma Uzomba, digital marketer and social media strategist.
Ensure that your desk or table is at a reasonable height and that you sit in a comfortable and supportive chair. Think about pairing an extra keyboard to enhance your posture if you’re using a laptop. Suppose you can take in some sunlight or fresh air from your seat; all the better.
Follow a regimen
Working in your pyjamas can further muddy the distinctions between the work and leisurely parts of your day. So, even though you don’t have to get dressed and ready for the day if you’re home, consider a morning ritual to help you start your day well. It could be as simple as taking a cup of coffee or tea or simply meditating. Then, try to follow a predetermined schedule during the day.
According to Micheal Emmanuel, a cross-sectoral content marketer writing for B2B SaaS companies, remote work comes with its unique challenges and simple habits such as turning off his phone and starting with simple tasks have been a huge help.
“To begin with, turning off my phone can never be a wrong move. I can always get back to the important messages. Sure, it does feel like I can’t just do that but it really helps. Secondly, I live by the rule that if I can do it now, I don’t have to do it later. Third, I start with the simple tasks. If I have to write an article, do a bit of competitive research, or repurpose content, I pick the simplest. Doing multiple simple tasks boosts me with the energy to face the seemingly non-simple ones. I also don’t wait until it’s perfect. Just get it done. I can only perfect what’s been done, not what exists on the canvas of the mind, “ he explains.
Establish defined limits for remote work
While remote work has many practical advantages, one significant drawback is that work follows you everywhere. Setting limits is essential for your relationships, physical and mental health, and overall health. So, adhere to a predetermined routine, such as working exclusively during regular business hours. If necessary, restrict your gadgets or turn off your phone during social events.
According to Tejiri Okpalefe, a content marketing specialist and brand storyteller, habits such as time management, setting clear goals, and taking regular breaks have been rewarding throughout her career journey. However, creating a boundary between her work and personal life takes the cake.
Separating my workspace from my living space has helped me maintain a healthy work-life balance. I strongly believe it creates a mental boundary between my professional and personal life, as remote work can sometimes make me feel like a human ChatGPT, and I have to make that extra effort.
Tejiri Okpalefe
“I have and still struggle with burnout but so far, this extra step has given me a sense of routine and structure in my day,” explains Tejiri.
Schedule time for socializing
Make an effort to socialize when you take a break, whether at lunch or the end of the day. Stop working and start preparing lunch with your family if they are still home. Call a friend, a member of your family, or a coworker to catch up if you’re by yourself. Making a conscious decision to provide the human connection that remote work frequently needs to improve.
For Emmanuel Alonge, a content strategist at a marketing agency, listening to piano compositions has been a go-to activity during many of his breaks.
While working, I listen to piano compositions. They help me focus and tune out whatever might be happening in my environment while ensuring that I can hear myself think”.
Emmanuel Alonge, content strategist
Take breaks during remote work to reflect
Take frequent ultradian rhythm breaks, preferably every 90 to 120 minutes, to increase productivity. You can restore focus with the help of active pauses, which provide your body with the oxygen and energy your brain needs. Think about going for a five-minute walk, getting healthy food, or brewing tea throughout your break.
As a UI/UX designer, Wes explained how demanding his work can be, from having to meet deadlines to continuously trying to keep up with current trends. However, he credited the significance of remote work in his career as it gives him room for improvement and freedom to explore his creative side and make good products for the next user.
He also pointed out the impact of needed breaks in his daily activities.
Images: Unsplash
