While in these unprecedented times, most of us find ourselves working from home unless essential. Many Americans have transitioned to telecommuting and virtual work over the last few weeks. While it may sound great to be able to work from home, many find themselves disconnected, unmotivated, unproductive and unhealthy. How do you cope?
Staying mentally and physically healthy is most important. If you cannot maintain that, then everything else falls by the wayside. Here are a few things to help you stay healthy and productive amidst the stress of the new normal.
Create Office Hours
If you are not required to maintain hours, you should create some and stick to those. Getting up at the same time every day and quitting at the same time will not only help with efficiency, it will establish boundaries so that you don’t find yourself burning the midnight oil.
Schedule Regular Breaks
Go for a walk. Sit outside. Read a book. In order for your mind to function, it has to have breaks, especially in this trying time when we are all dealing with more stress anxiety than usual.
Remain Connected
Reach out to colleagues and friends during this time. It is easy to feel isolated. However, a Zoom call or Facetime everyday will help keep you plugged into humanity, both professionally and socially.
Get Moving
Whether it’s morning, lunch, or evening, schedule exercise at least three times a week. It will help cut down on your stress and keep you healthy. So, you don’t have your gym anymore? No problem! There are many people offering free workouts online these days that don’t require anything fancy. If all else fails, walk! Taking three long walks a week at a fast pace will go a long way in maintaining your health.