Being a remote worker has a unique set of challenges. It’s fantastic to have the flexibility to work from home or a location that is comfortable for you. However, it can be difficult for a variety of reasons. It’s crucial to prioritize your mental health no matter where you work, but it is of the utmost importance if you are working outside of a traditional office. There are different challenges when you work in an office. Here are four ways you can prioritize your mental health when you work remotely.
Have boundaries with friends and family
If you work from home, friends and family may not understand that you are doing a job. It’s unfortunate, but work is associated with an outside entity such as an office. People who work in a remote location such as their home often don’t get the same level of respect as someone who works in a corporate office.
For example, your friends and family may call you during the workday expecting to chat because they think you’re not working. You don’t have an obligation to speak to anybody in your social circle during your business hours. You can set boundaries. It could be as simple as sending a text message when someone calls you saying, “I cannot talk right now. I’ll give you a call after work.” If these individuals refuse to respect your boundaries and keep calling or texting, you do not have to respond. You already set the boundary, and that’s what matters. You don’t have to answer the phone when you are working or reply to a text. If you were working in an office, your loved ones would not expect that you would be accessible this way. So, it’s the same for working from your home.
Have a dedicated workspace
It’s crucial to have space where you can do your job. If you were working in an office, you would have a desk where you did your job. When you work remotely, you can create your own space to do your work. Whether it’s at a table and you’re sitting down, or working at a standing desk, create a space where you feel comfortable and can be the most productive. If possible, it helps to not have your workspace in the same area that you sleep. Working in your bedroom can create confusion for your mind and body. Separate where you rest from where you work. You can have fun decorating your workspace. You can have pictures of people that you love near your computer. You can also make it a place that you can focus. Do you want to make sure that your workspace is a place where you can get the most work done.
Take mental health breaks
When you work in an office, it’s relatively easy to take a lunch hour because you can leave your office. When you work remotely, you’re responsible for setting your schedule and taking a break. Brakes are extremely important because you don’t want to overwork yourself. If there’s nobody overseeing you because you work remotely, it can be difficult for you to impose breaks. Still, it’s necessary to take a breather when you’re working remotely so that you don’t burn out. It could help you to write down a schedule. That way, you know when your breaks are and don’t deviate from them.
Don’t goof off even though you’re working remotely
As mentioned above, just because you’re working remotely doesn’t mean you’re not working. Some people take advantage of their remote positions and go off and do errands during the day. You might be a responsible person. He doesn’t do such a thing. Remember, just like you’re setting boundaries with your friends and family, set limits with yourself. Ensure that when you are operating during business hours, you are doing work. You can take breaks, but don’t deviate from them.
Maintaining mental health and work-life balance
It can be challenging to maintain your mental health, but going to see a therapist can help. You can work with a counselor online or in your local area. Check out more information about therapy at https://www.mytherapist.com/advice/therapists/.
Your mental health is crucial as a remote worker. You can get support when you speak to a counselor. Online counseling is a flexible way to get the help that you need. You can see a therapist in the privacy of your own home. Whatever way you choose, whether it’s in person or a remote counselor, therapy can help you achieve that work-life balance.
Author
Marie Miguel has been a writing and research expert for nearly a decade, covering a variety of health-related topics. Currently, she is contributing to the expansion and growth of a free online mental health resource with MyTherapist.com. With an interest and dedication to addressing stigmas associated with mental health, she continues to specifically target subjects related to anxiety and depression.
