Coronavirus: How to Avoid Cabin Fever When Working at Home
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In the last few months, many of us worked remotely from home— some of us for the very first time. Some of us enjoyed it (especially the introverts among us), and others didn’t. While many of us are now returning to the office, with countries around the world easing restrictions, there’s no denying that remote work will be much more commonplace in the post-pandemic world, and work and home spaces will continue to blur. To cope with feelings of isolation and distraction, it’s essential that we set boundaries while maintaining productivity, work-life balance, and a sense of mental wellness.
1. Set a morning routine
A healthy morning routine sets the tone for the rest of the day. Prepare a to-do list the evening before; by eliminating opportunities for decision-making in the morning, you are free to focus on your more important, immediate tasks without having to ponder what to do next. And finally, establishing an effective routine requires a bit of fine-tuning. Adjust your mornings as you go to experiment with what works for your schedule and energy levels, and if you’re not living alone, your significant other, family or roommates.
It is important to be aware and take care of your mental health during this pandemic.
Here are a few ideas to help you begin your day:
Meditate or do simple breathing exercises to reorient your focus to the present.
Invigorate the senses with a short yoga or stretch session, followed by a cold shower.
Prepare a nourishing breakfast, enjoy with coffee and a morning music playlist or podcast.
Review your calendar, to-do list and any meetings to calibrate your expectations.
2. Dress the part
The term enclothed cognition describes the effects of clothing on our psychological processes, behaviour and the way we interact with the world. While it’s certainly tempting to stay in your baggy pyjamas, dressing as you would if you’re going into the office can help put you in the right frame of mind to do work. Try putting on an outfit that you feel professional and comfortable in to stay motivated during work hours.
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3. Take virtual lunch/ coffee breaks
An integral, and undeniably pleasant, part of the work day consists of going out for regular coffee runs and engaging in some banter in the pantry with co-workers. In fact, research has shown that interacting with your co-workers can stay productive and lower stress levels. If you have a work friend you’re used to having lunch with, or even venting about day-to-day frustrations with, set up (virtual) lunches and coffee breaks throughout the day to check in with them, exchange ideas and to maintain a healthy dose of social contact.
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4. Care for a plant, or two
Nurturing a plant is a wonderful antidote to being in front of our screens all day, even if just for a few moments. Studies have shown that workers are more productive and happier in offices with indoor plants. What’s more, humans are happier when they’re surrounded by lovely living things. So when you feel you’re getting too much screen time, take a minute to check on your plants.
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5. Plan weekly date nights
Setting aside one evening of the week for a date night not only an opportunity for us to celebrate quality time with our significant other, but also gives us something fun to look forward to, and introduces a bit of novelty to the everyday routines we’re so used to. Dress up in your most formal attire, take turns preparing a nice meal (or order delivery), put on some music and open a bottle of wine. If you’ve had to cancel travel plans, bring the destination home to you and try a themed date night.
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6. Make time for goal-oriented projects
Isolating at home with your significant other and children can be challenging, even with the seemingly endless Netflix shows available for you to binge on. If you are able to carve out the time to spend quality time together, try participating in a goal-oriented project. Unlike passive activities such as watching TV, collaborative projects encourage teamwork and give you a goal to achieve while having fun.
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Here are are few ideas:
Work on a puzzle
Try a new recipe
Learn a new language or skill
Work on a DIY home project
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There is no one-size-fits-all formula to working from home, and it requires a steady— and often tricky — balance of discipline and creativity. But when implemented in a way that works for your routine and family, it can be remarkably productive and fulfilling. Plus, you won’t have to worry about the long commutes. Happy remote working!
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References:
Adam, Hajo, and Adam D. Galinsky. “Enclothed Cognition.” Journal of Experimental Social Psychology, Academic Press, 21 Feb. 2012, www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0022103112000200.
“The Importance of Positive Relationships in the Workplace.” PositivePsychology.com, 4 Aug. 2020, positivepsychology.com/positive-relationships-workplace/.
LibSander. “Nature in the Workplace Makes Employees Happier and Healthier.” Phys.org, Phys.org, 1 Sept. 2017, phys.org/news/2017-09-nature-workplace-employees-happier-healthier.html.