Technology has allowed us to work from the safety and comfort of our homes. With the prevalence of work from home setup, more and more people are transforming their homes into a place of work.
One of the problems of working at home is that the lines between work and home have become blurry. You sit on your desk at eight in the morning to start your workday. Before you know it, the sun has already set, and it is already seven in the evening. Where did the rest of the day go? Did you even have a lunch break? It is now seven, yet you are still taking emails like it is three in the afternoon.
Stop yourself. A work from home setup does not mean you will be chained in front of your desk. It is essential to maintain a healthy work-life balance, no matter your work setup. A healthy work-life balance ensures that you enjoy your life and have some time for your personal development.
Here are the steps you can take to ensure that you stay healthy and sane, no matter your work setup.
1. Eat properly and on time.
You can be tempted to have instant ramen in front of your computer. However, nothing beats having a proper meal without work as your distraction. Stock up your fridge with healthy options such as vegetables, fruits, nuts, and whole-grain foods. Look for easy and quick to prepare healthy meals on the internet. Skip the chips and sodas. Snack on nuts and fruits instead. Eating healthy is the first step that you can take to ensure your health.
2. Get enough sleep.
Getting sufficient sleep is vital for your mental and physical health. Sleep deprivation can affect your productivity and can make you quick-tempered. It can also affect your concentration and problem-solving skills. On top of these, lack of sleep can increase your risks for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and weight gain. If you are working the night shift, make sure to get enough sleep during the day. You can take vitamins that can help prevent iron deficiency anemia, such as ferrous fumarate.
3. Do not forget to exercise.
Having a daily and regular exercise regimen can help you create balance in your daily schedule. Now that you have more time, you can schedule your workouts. Regular exercise can help raise your energy levels, improve your mood, and reduce your risks of depression.
4. Stick to a working schedule.
When you were working in an office, you were following a schedule. You went home after office hours and focus on your self. Do the same even in a work-from-home setup. Have some time for yourself. Log in on time and log out on time. You were not paid to do 24 hours of work, so don’t. Set some clear boundaries and avoid answering work emails past your shift if they are not that urgent.
5. Have a dedicated working desk.
A dedicated working desk will serve as your office at home. Everything about work will be done on this desk. You can take your laptop in your balcony or your living room for a change of scenery but avoid taking it to your bed. Your bed is a place of relaxation, and it should remain that way.
6. Go out once in a while.
If your local restrictions allow it, go out once in a while, whether for groceries or a quick run. Going outside can help clear your mind, and it is good for your mental health. Just make sure to follow safety protocols such as safe physical distancing and wearing a face mask.
7. Take short breaks.
Whether it is for coffee or a quick snack, taking short breaks is healthy for you. It helps you recharge your energy to face your tasks for the rest of the day. Take a quick nap, get some snacks, or go to the window to breathe in some fresh air. A short break is essential for your well-being and productivity.
8. Do not work on weekends.
This is related to sticking to your working schedule. Avoid working on weekends unless necessary. Your weekends are scared times that you should spend on yourself and your family. Clean your home, do the laundry, and buy groceries. Just do not open that laptop and answer emails. They can wait until Monday.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a work-from-home setup is essential. Whatever you do, do not forget that your well-being should always come first.
