How Remote Workers Can Relieve Stress and Avoid Burnout

The world as we knew it has changed drastically and indefinitely. We’ve gone from a nation of people always on the go, constantly packing ourselves into crowded venues of all kinds, to working from home, hardly leaving the house except to form carefully spaced-out lines at stores that sell only the most essential items. 

Many of us are starting to get out more again as vaccines are increasingly available. But for many, the shift to remote work has become permanent, regardless of where the pandemic stands. Then there are some of us who are working and going to school from home, which means navigating the intricacies of work and online education at the same time.

If you’re still in limbo, waiting to see when or whether your remote work situation might change, there are things you can do to protect your mental health. Here are a few techniques to try for preventing work-from-home burnout. 

Make Self-Care a Priority

One of the best things you can do is to make self-care a priority. Many places you used to go to blow off steam, recharge, or recuperate—the gym, salon, or massage table—may still have limited access or services. 

The phenomenon can be especially troublesome for stay-at-home parents, those who have become homeschool teachers, and anyone who may be tasked with the care of others in general. It can seem like there’s no time for taking care of yourself. 

But you can’t pour from an empty cup. By neglecting your own needs, you can wear yourself down to the point of having no energy left to take care of anyone else. Do your best to take some time each day to practice self-care. 

Secure Your Finances

Worrying about money is one of the most common (and difficult) stressors. Take some proactive steps to nail down your money situation so you can return your thoughts to the rest of your life.

Start by writing down all your monthly expenses and income. Then you can make a budget that addresses your situation. Try to set aside funds for emergencies and, if necessary, debt repayment.

Maybe you’ve still got student debt, or maybe you’re going back to school and trying to figure out how much tuition will cost. Figure out what these costs are, if you don’t already know, and factor them into your financial equation.

Another important area is credit. Access your credit report, address any mistakes or discrepancies, and start making moves to build your credit for the future. If you’re building your credit from scratch or have had credit issues in the past, consider a secured credit card. These types of cards are low risk, since you deposit a dollar amount that serves as your credit limit, and they help build your credit over time with responsible use. 

Create a Great Office Space

You already know your surroundings play a major role in your mental state. If you’ve been working from home for a while, isn’t it time you stopped just popping open your laptop at the kitchen table or on your living room couch?

Instead, create your own personal, dedicated workspace. You’ll need the basics: desk, chair, computer, and possibly a printer/scanner. Make sure they’re set up ergonomically so you can be comfortable for the long haul. Then, personalize the space with artwork, plants, candles, photos—anything else that makes you feel good. 

Once you can consider a space your “work sanctuary,” you’ll be more comfortable and productive during your working hours, which can improve your non-working hours, too.

Designate No-Work Zones

Given that the lines between your personal and professional life are likely quite blurry, setting boundaries is key. Consider designating certain areas or times in which you deliberately will not respond to work-related communications or complete work-related tasks. When work can’t intrude, you reclaim some control over your life. 

For instance, you may decide you won’t complete any work in your living room or bedroom. Or you may decide that you won’t do any work after 6 p.m. each day. No matter how you draw these lines, make sure you take them seriously. Setting boundaries is the best way to claim a space for yourself within your home/work environment. 

Don’t Forget to Have Fun

Lastly, no matter how tough life may seem—or how important your to-do list is—you have to set aside some time to just be free. This could involve anything from taking a jog to jumping on a trampoline, dancing, hula hooping, singing, or anything that makes you feel happy and alive. Outdoor activities offer a bonus of fresh air and sunshine, but anything that relaxes you is good. 

When life gets heavy, it can be easy to neglect your own needs. But everyone needs time, space, and cultivation of their own mental health. Safeguard your home and mind. Set and keep boundaries. Indulge in some carefree activities. This will help keep burnout at bay, whether you’re adapting to a permanent work-from-home situation or just staying well while waiting for word of any change.