As so many of us are working from home at the moment, and have been for months, it is important to ensure that we are finding a healthy work balance. When working from home, it is very easy to work later than if we were in the office while also becoming distracted at times. Our tips will help you find a healthy work balance, so you don’t overwork yourself, become lazy or get too frustrated while working.

Routine

One of the best ways to find a healthy work balance during lockdown is to establish a daily working routine. This involves waking up at the same day, starting work at the same time, taking your breaks at the same time every day and finishing work at the same time every day. Routines can be hard to get used to without accountability, but they are extremely beneficial to your productivity and sense of control over your current working situation.

Set Working Hours

As mentioned previously, it’s very important to set specific working hours and adhere to them, especially paying attention to finishing work when you are scheduled to. Studies show that people surprisingly work longer hours when working from home, which is very easy to do. This is not good for your mental health and may exhaust you. It is OK to keep working sometimes when you are in a good flow or have a large project to complete, but it should not be a regular occurrence or you may find yourself burning out over time.

Separate Work Space/Zone

It’s very important to create a ‘work zone' in your house, which is only used for your job. It is best not to work on the couch or in bed, as it will lower productivity and ruin the comfort of your place of relaxation. Working in these places will not be good for yout mentally or physically, especially during lockdown. Try to only work from your ‘work zone’ as you will be much more productive when sitting upright at a desk or table.

Go Easy on Yourself

To find a healthy work balance during lockdown, we must also go easy on ourselves, and allow ourselves adequate breaks when needed. Some days will be slower than others, and we must not put too much pressure on ourselves when we are not feeling at our best. The current lockdown is proving very difficult for most people as they are experiencing negative effects on their mental health. Remind yourself everyday that you are doing great and working in lockdown is not easy.

Exercise

Getting some exercise in your working day is very important to freshen your mind and get those endorphins going. It is best to exercise on your lunch break to get some daylight, vitamin D and fresh air. Many of us who are working from home no longer have commutes or drives, so we have no reason to leave our house for the majority of the week. Exercise in whatever form will positively affect many areas of not only your working life but also your personal life during these tough times at lockdown.

Follow the link here for support from the HSE for anyone struggling to keep well while working from home during lockdown.

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