Taking care of your mental health is just as important as physical activity and eating nourishing food while adapting to the new daily routine. Here are some adjustments you might consider implementing.
1. Create a routine and stick to the schedule
The way you plan the working hours in your day can make all the difference. When you organize your tasks and outline your goals, you mentally prepare yourself for what to expect during the day. Then it’s easier to work towards achieving the goals you set out, rather than vaguely chasing towards them. This scheduling also prevents tasks not on your to-do list from creeping into your day.
It’s important to schedule breaks as well. Set aside time to escape all forms of digital screens and give your eyes, neck, shoulders, and back a much-needed rest!
2. Upgrade your home office
As mentioned in our earlier posts, if you don’t have a dedicated workspace, make that priority number one. Moreover, it would be just perfect if you have an office with a door you can close to mentally and physically separate work and home life.
Some home office equipment to be used preferably:
- Wide desk. Support for your wrists, arms, and elbows will keep carpal tunnel away while you use your mouse and keyboard.
- Comfortable, ergonomic chair that supports your back. Long work hours require a supportive chair for your back, neck, and spine. Look for strong lumbal support for the curve of your lower back.
- Dope sound system. Without coworkers to dispute your taste in music, you can blast your favourite playlists and get yourself in the zone. We recommend some concentration jazz or lo-fi ambient tunes for optimal working performance.
3. Get up and exercise
Fight the urge to sit down all day, and schedule some active time to get your heart pumping.
You can stretch, do yoga, aerobics, pilates or practice a hip-hop dance video on YouTube — whatever floats your boat.
Exercising 20 to 30 minutes daily can significantly lower anxiety levels. You’ll also boost endorphins and serotonin to flood your brain with happiness.
4. It is OK to say “no”
You may want to take on as much work as you can, but there’s only so much you can complete in a day. Know your limitations, set boundaries based on your schedule and workload, and don’t extend yourself beyond them.
We advise you to follow these tips and protect your mental health from the loneliness, anxiety, and depression many remote workers have a hard time dealing with.
Reach out to someone you trust, speak to your doctor, or find a mental health professional if you’re struggling with depression or anxiety. You’re not alone. And remember, tomorrow is always a fresh start.