1. Set Boundaries with Routines and Non-Negotiables: Our brains thrive on routine. Keeping a consistent daily schedule with regular work hours and breaks can do wonders for maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Make your routine go even further by adding non-negotiable activities into your week that help you be your best self. Examples of non-negotiables are weekly date nights with your partner, an evening hobby class, lunchtime walks in the park, or morning meditation. Remember, its important that you commit to these self-care activities just as much as you would any other responsibility! 

2. Step Out of Autopilot Mode: A lot of us are stuck in the autopilot mode of ‘go, go, go’ without really stopping to catch our breath. As a result, we can become disconnected from our thoughts, feelings, and bodies. Take small, frequent breaks throughout your day to be fully present in the moment and check in with yourself. Ask yourself how you are feeling and what you need at that particular moment. You could try a body scan to connect with your body, a brief walk to clear your mind, or some deep breathing to relax your nervous system.

3. Stay Connected: We are social creatures, and our tribe helps us thrive. Remote work might be efficient, but it often comes with a lack of human connection. Explore creative ways to interact with others throughout your day. You could schedule time to casually catch up with your colleagues, plan an in-person lunch or coffee break, or dedicate evenings to spending quality time with loved ones. These social interactions are essential for preventing feelings of loneliness and making us feel more fulfilled.

4. Mind Your Environment: Mess and clutter can make us feel overwhelmed and distracted. Check if everything on your desk actually needs to be there. Does it make you feel motivated or stressed? Remove what’s not needed, and add things that help you feel more present and motivated. For example, elements of nature, like a small plant or a picture of greenery, can help improve mood and concentration. Things like vision boards, feel-good photographs, or meaningful keepsake can remind us of our purpose and what we really value in life. 

5. Don’t Underestimate Rest: Many of us spend our lives cycling between stress and productivity. This is a shame because quality rest actually helps us be happier, more positive and more efficient! This doesn’t mean simply sitting on the couch watching TV every evening—really check in with yourself to see if what you are doing as downtime is actually helping you unwind or making you feel more anxious in the long term. Activities like movement, breathwork, and creativity can make it easier for us to enter our “rest mode” and recover from the stresses of the day.

6. Connect to the Meaning of Your Work: Working from home can feel lonely and monotonous, leading to feelings of stagnation or a lack of purpose. To combat this, reconnect with the meaning and value of your work. Reflect on why you chose your career or what you like most about your job. Notice if there are opportunities to make your work feel more meaningful. Maybe it’s about strengthening your relationships with your colleagues, writing a gratitude list, or stepping out of your comfort zone to try something new.

conclusion

Working from home comes with its own set of perks and challenges. By acknowledging these and adopting strategies to maintain your wellbeing, you can create a more balanced and fulfilling work-from-home experience. Prioritise your mental health and don’t hesitate to reach out for support if you need it. You’re not alone, and with the right approach, you can thrive in your working environment. Every small step you take towards enhancing your wellbeing contributes to a happier, healthier you.