Millions around the globe transitioned to remote work during the pandemic and are expected to continue for a long time. However, after a while, the newness of the change starts to wear off, and that’s when burnout creeps in.

Check out my earlier post – COVID 2.0 Marathon – Stay Productive with 9 @WFH Tips While initial focus of work from home (WFH) was all about being productive and efficient but the focus has shifted on how to prevent one from burning out as this pandemic is incessant beyond average human comfort zone.

According to a recent Monster survey, pandemic induced WFH burnout is real as more than 50% of respondents said they are experiencing burnout. Another survey by a US-based anonymous professional network with 3.2 million verified users, stated that 53% of respondents across multiple organizations including Google, Facebook, Amazon, Apple, LinkedIn, and Walmart were feeling burnout and facing loneliness during WFH.

The lines between work space and home are blurring. Because the shift to remote working came about so suddenly, employees are forced into this situation without adequate preparation, much less of a choice. Many of us are “panic working” through pandemic doubled by economy doldrums, and it is taking a toll on everyone’s health fabric.

With remote working and other personal tasks now often happening from the same room at the same time, many workers are stuck in an unending loop, often drifting between reality and their daily life. WHO has categorized burnout as an occupational phenomenon and considers these as the major symptoms:

• Exhaustion and lack of energy, in general
• Increased mental distance from a job, feelings of negativity and cynicism relating to one’s job
• Reduced work efficiency

For those are experiencing burnout, necessary intervention need to be made to facilitate – what’s the best way to possible to reverse what they are going through, maintain good health and get the most out of working remotely to get them back on track holistically.

Mindful steps to prevent WFH Burnout:

• Structure your day

When your office is also the place you sleep, eat, and spend your free time, it’s difficult to keep track of the time and end up working less than your average work day — or even more. According to a survey, when working remotely 36% of employee’s structure their day to resemble normal office working hours. Structuring your remote work hours to resemble in-office hours can help you stay productive both as an individual and also as part of a team. Also, having a regular routine similar to one in an office helps in maintain a work-life balance.

• Take a Planned time off

If you feel burnt out, take a time off and don’t feel bad about it. Know that you have earned it and plan it in such a way that it helps you to recover. Whether you decide to travel or just enjoy at home, make sure that you completely unplug. Turn off all notifications and make a rule to not talk or think about work at all. After a few days, you’ll feel recharged and ready for action.

• Pick up a new hobby

At times work is challenging and you need to find a healthy way to take your mind off. Intense work needs to be balanced with intense play. Join a sports, learn an art, go on a hike or just strengthen yourself with workout and exercise or hiking. It would be beneficial if you choose a group activity, since it can help you combat remote work isolation.

• Communicate with your team

Hiding your concerns will only make them worse. If you’re feeling burned out, tell your manager and colleagues as early as possible. They can collaborate with you to redistribute your workload, motivate and encourage you. Who knows, some of your teammates may be feeling the same way, so you will be doing a favor for more people than just yourself. While we can’t meet our co-workers face-to-face that shouldn’t stop us communicating with them using technology platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meets, Skype, etc.

• Be Aware of your Limitations

You don’t have to beat yourself for not being always available to your manager. Instead, practice self-care, decompress – mentally and physically. In between your work, stretch a little or take short breaks which help you recover. Resist the urge to be ‘always there’ as you don’t have to. Everybody is giving their best shot, and so are you.

As we all are experiencing, this pandemic is not a sprint but is turning out to be a marathon and it is key to stay healthy, motivated and be safe. Read my other post- Sprint done, now get ready for Marathon COVID 2.0

Conclusion:

WFH burnout is real and here to stay if not addressed head on by both enterprises and individuals. While above are a few recommendations that may help you avoid burnout while WFH, I am sure we can expand this list to suit the respective individual/groups. It takes a little mindful effort to shake up your routine, inject energy into your working life and stay clear of WFH burnout. Pick the technique that interests you the most and give it a shot, there are no right answers here. Who knows, you might get used to it and never want to go to the office again! And most importantly, do exercise regularly, eat right and sleep well – for a healthy mind leads a healthy body. Finally it is essential to Mind the Gap in the Mind!!

#WFH #StaySafe #StayHealthy #StayPositive !!!

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