Working from home is the new normal for many and while it is appealing for some it can be quite confronting to others. Your health and wellbeing is paramount so it’s important to remain vigilant by making time for yourself and your mental health.
Remember, you are not alone:
Don’t’ let social distancing make you feel disconnected. Get creative when staying in touch with friends, family and colleagues. Whether it’s a virtual chat, lunch or a funny status update, social distancing does not equate to social isolation. Stay healthy, happy and maintain momentum while working from home:
1. Establish a work-zone
Setting up a dedicated workspace at home is crucial to your productivity and focus, even if it’s just a space at the kitchen table or a small desk in a corner of your living room. It is ideal if you have a workspace that you can go to for work and walk away from after the workday is done.
2. Stick to a schedule
Following a schedule is key when you’re working from home. It can be easy to procrastinate or over-schedule yourself away from your job duties. In addition to setting clearly defined work hours, it is also recommended waking up at a regular time each day, showering and getting dressed. Developing a regular routine will help you get into a natural rhythm that maintains your productivity.
3. Go all in:
It can be tempting to put things off while working remotely. But teams that thrive remotely find ways to do just about everything online. If you’ve scheduled one-on-ones, keep them. If you’ve planned big meetings, hold them. If you’re ready to brainstorm an upcoming presentation, jump on that video call.
4. Practice self-care
Carve out time each day for exercise, meditation or other self-care practices. That may include leaving the house to exercise or making time for rest and relaxation. Disconnection from work is an important component to feeling refreshed and motivated.
5. Monitor Your Mental Health
Working from home has its advantages, but significant disruption and change can take their toll on your mental health. Be mindful of changes in your mood or behaviour and ask others in your life to do the same.
Below are some helpful resources on managing your mental health while working at home:
Australian Psychological Society: Tips for coping with coronavirus anxiety
Beyond Blue: Looking after your mental health during the coronavirus outbreak
The South Australian Business Chamber encourages all South Australians to remember that these unprecedented times will pass and that working from home is in your best interest as far as your health is concerned. We also support the Federal and State Governments in their enforcement of social distancing restrictions as the health and safety of all South Australians remains paramount to our organisation.
