Struggling to switch off after work? You’re not alone. Typically people use a commute to decompress from the working day. But the lines blur when you work where you live. Taking the stresses of that day home with you is pretty easy when you just go from one room to the next. It’s just one of the problems remote workers need to tackle:
Problem: Being unable to switch off from home
Solution: You need to create as much separation between your home and work lives as possible. Try not to use your phone for work reasons and avoid using your work computer for personal tasks. When you go to work or go home, you want to feel like there’s distance between the two. You can try replicating a commute by going on a walk round the block, for example. Try and put activities into your routine that either allow you to prepare for the working day or unwind from it.
Problem: The idea of being constantly available
Solution: Talk to your employer about expectations on replying. If you have flexible working hours, there should be some understanding that people may or may not be available during conventional work hours. Healthy boundaries are important. Remember you can also schedule replies on most email providers if you work anti-social hours and would rather it land in someone’s inbox in the morning.
Problem: Limited privacy
Solution: Not everyone has a spare room to use as an office. They rely on a working ‘zone’, so interruptions can be inevitable. The important thing is to have a dedicated space – even if you have to set it up and put it away each day. You also need to talk to the people you live with, so they know when you’re working. It can be tricky with younger kids around, so you may need to rely on a sign if you’re on a call. Remember you can also spend time in a coffee shop or library, for example, to have a break from your home environment if needed.
Problem: Insufficient IT or internet capabilities
Solution: Some companies will set aside a budget to make sure all their employees have the right equipment and connections at home. Before you make the move to home working, you will need to check your connection is up to scratch. You might be able to upgrade, or you might have to change providers. You could chat to your neighbours to see if they’re happy with their connection, or use a broadband and mobile coverage checker to compare.
Problem: Keeping up concentration and focus
Solution: No-one can keep up focus for hours on end. You have to give yourself breaks. Whether that’s organising meetings to break up the day or going on a walk at lunch, you need to give your brain a rest. At home, you could do a few chores before returning to your desk. Just be careful you don’t get too distracted from your work.
Problem: A lack of socialising or workplace culture
Solution: We’ve explored some tools you can use to keep in touch, but ultimately, it’s down to effort. You have to reach out and keep in touch with colleagues. Does your company have a social committee? Are there events you could organise, either virtually or in the office? Also, consider how you could use the extra time you save by not commuting to get in touch with friends or start a new hobby.
No problem is insurmountable. But it’s important you don’t struggle alone at home with these issues or any other other. That’s when feelings of isolation can really escalate. If there’s anything you’re unhappy with or finding difficult, talk to your team, your manager or your HR department to come up with a solution that works for everyone.
SOURCE: COTSWOLD Co
