This post originally appeared 10.19.20.
If you’re one of the millions working from home as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, I’d bet that you’re either feeling burnt out right now or have experienced this productivity block at some point over the last several months. It’s that feeling like you can’t focus, that lack of motivation you just can’t make up for, and that overall feeling of complete, blah.
There’s no question burnout is real, especially when you’re still trying to process all of the WTF that’s happening in the world around us. Sound familiar? This post is for you.
To help you restore your peak levels of productivity once more and even more importantly, keep you sane during WFH days, we’re sharing some of our best burnout-busters.
1. Stay organized and prioritize your tasks
Here’s the reality of working from home and working in general: there are only so many hours in the day to get stuff done. Some days, you might be in the zone and race right through your checklist while others aren’t so impressive. And that’s okay!
What’s important to keep in perspective is task priority and organization. By staying organized, you can get a good look at your progress and create a schedule that suits your workflow and meets your deadline. Use a project management program such as Asana, Monday.com, or Trello, or start tracking your progress using our free productivity worksheet!
2. Change up your work environment
Most of us have been holed up in our homes quarantining since March, doing everything from resting, working, socializing (virtually), etc. all within the same four walls of our homes. It’s completely natural to feel a little uninspired or even annoyed with your workspace after all of this time. In fact, staying in the same space can even be a hindrance to your productivity and a contributing factor to your feelings of burnout.
Changing up your work environment can mean a few different things. You might physically move from one room or even corner to another, or you can do some redecorating to infuse inspiration right back into your work zone. If you’re going for the latter, here are some helpful hacks to get you started:
- Declutter your home office and elevate your organization with storage containers and file folders
- Add some artistic inspiration by hanging up a print from a famous artist
- Bring some greenery into your space with a houseplant or a small bouquet of flowers
3. Try to unplug during your time off
Although there are several things you can do to prevent burnout while you’re working, the most effective is to take breaks when you need to. A few minutes to a week or two off can work wonders for your productivity and overall happiness. Plus, paid breaks are there for a reason! Use them.
When you do take time off though, make sure you use it wisely by making sure you’re completely removed from the day to day grind. Turn email and messaging notifications off, chill out with your collection of CBD products, make a healthy meal, or dive into your favorite book. Whatever it is that makes you feel most at peace, make sure you’re using your precious time to do it!
4. Prioritize your personal health
A big part of managing burnout and stress is prioritizing your physical and mental health. Taking time to exercise, eat healthy, talk to a therapist, and socialize with your loved ones are all major pieces of the puzzle. If you’ve been having a hard time focusing on your health during these unique circumstances, consider these tips.
- Join an online gym
- Spend time outside
- Run a virtual 5K
- Have virtual or socially-distant hangs with loved ones
- Show some self-care and creativity with paint by numbers
- Make sure you’re getting good sleep each night
Wrapping up
Whether you’ve been working from home for years or are new to the experience, these wellness tips can help. No matter what field you’re in or what your job function, burnout is an all too common reality for today’s workers. As you continue your WFH career, keep these four tips in mind to keep burnout at bay.
