CHARLESTON, S.C. - Teleworking is the new normal. The reality is a lot of companies have ditched their brick-and-mortar offices because their business can run remotely just as efficiently. With the last two years and counting, you might be in this situation now.
With this switch to teleworking and facing the reality that your job is no longer what you thought it might be, you may have gotten into a slump of feeling like there is no separation from your personal and work life. As we start this new year, let us take a moment to reflect on our current work habits and reevaluate how some of our tendencies are hurting us.
Here are my 5 tips for those teleworking who feel like they are always working:
#1 Set a schedule
Our bodies and minds crave routine. You should start setting a consistent work and sleep schedule. Setting these hours will let you know when it is time to switch off work mode. This includes scheduling daily breaks for yourself too to take a walk or stretch and step away from your computer. Schedule alarms on your phone for these times to help get into this routine.
#2 Get dressed
While we all see the huge advantage of working remotely being able to stay in your pajamas all day, this too will make it seem like there is no separation between your personal life and your work life. You do not need to put on your best suit and tie, but you do need to change out of those pajamas that you slept in at the start of your workday.
#3 Define your space
Do not work from your bed or couch- you do not want to blur the lines too much on where you work and where you relax. Set up a desk space if you have the room available to help better define these spaces and make a consistent effort to utilize it.
#4 Set boundaries
Like setting a schedule, your boss and coworkers should adhere to working hours as well. Do not answer late night emails, texts, or calls that can wait until the next business day. Schedule your phone to go into “Do Not Disturb” mode if you cannot resist checking your phone when you see a notification. You can even customize this feature and have your phone go into “Do Not Disturb” mode for certain contacts and schedule this to automatically happen every day when your working hours are over.
#5 Prioritize your mental health
The last, but most important tip is focusing on your mental health. Just because you are working from home does not mean you do not deserve time off, even if it is just a day to not work. Working from home can certainly be an isolating experience as well. Take time off to reconnect with your friends and family. Seek out mental health resources available through your employer or go externally if you need to. And use your vacation time, work can wait.
With a little bit of practice and self-patience, you will be ready to take on the next steps in your future career. If you would like more information about how to apply for jobs online, assistance in finding resources, tips on how to get the job-hunting process started or more, please reach out to us at CCPL (Charleston County Public Library) by email, chat, or text. Remember, you are not alone.