While working from home can provide professionals with many benefits, it isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. Often, it may feel as if you never leave the house, which can be frustrating. Plus, separating your personal and professional life may seem impossible as your office is never more than a few steps away. That can lead to an “always-on” mentality, and that can quickly become draining.
Additionally, working remotely can leave you feeling isolated and lonely. After all, you cannot communicate face-to-face with colleagues, which creates a sense of separation. And, if you aren’t going to be heading back to the office anytime soon, it may all feel inescapable.
Luckily, it is possible to overcome work at home burnout. If you aren’t sure where to begin, here are some tips.
Set Boundaries
If your work-life is bleeding into your personal time, setting boundaries may be necessary if you want to overcome work from home burnout. Create a set schedule with your manager that outlines when you are on the clock. Then, when your off-hours arrive, completely disconnect by turning off notifications and shutting down your work devices.
With that approach, you create some much-needed separation. Your personal time will begin to feel like yours again, and that can make a big difference.
Schedule Time for Yourself
A bit of “me time” can be rejuvenating. However, when you’re feeling overwhelmed, it may be hard to envision squeezing some into your day.
One potential solution is to put your “me time” on your calendar. For example, you may want to schedule two 15-minute breaks, one in the morning and one in the afternoon, that you can use for an enjoyable activity. You could also block out one hour two evenings a week for a hobby.
By scheduling it formally, you’re ensuring you carve out time for yourself. Plus, you can set up notifications to alert you when those times arrive, decreasing the odds that you’ll accidentally miss those appointments.
Focus on Connection
When burnout is tied to feelings of isolation, actively working to connect with people may make a difference. Whether it’s scheduling a weekly video call with a loved one or getting on the phone when you need insight from a colleague instead of emailing, anything that can help you foster your relationships could lift you up.
Speak with Your Manager
Sometimes, burnout is more about your daily activities than where you work. If you’re struggling because your engagement is slipping or you are overtasked, speak with your manager about your workload.
Along with presenting any challenges you’re facing, also discuss potential answers to the issues. That way, you’re solutions-oriented, and you open up opportunities for a dialog that can lead to a mutually acceptable resolution.
Ultimately, all of the tips above can make it easier to overcome work from home burnout. If you’d like to find out more, the team at The Advance Group can help. Contact us for help finding a job that better fits your future.
