Working from home means your home is for more than just personal time and stuff. Spaces in your room become your makeshift office, meeting room, and sometimes even lunch break spot. The lines between work and personal life can easily blur, leading to feelings of isolation, burnout, and stress. But with great remote work convenience comes great stress-management responsibility. Here, we’ll equip you with practical tools to conquer remote work challenges, reclaim your space, and stay calm in the comfort of your own home.

• Structure your day.

Just because you’re not commuting to an office doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have a daily routine. Establish regular wake-up and sleep times, schedule breaks throughout the day, and dedicate specific times for work tasks. This structure helps in keeping you focused. Also, try to time-block your day. Divide your workday into focused blocks for specific tasks. This can help with procrastination and ensures you’re giving important projects the attention they deserve. Don’t skip breaks! Schedule short breaks throughout the day to get up, move around, and recharge. Use this time for a quick walk, some stretches, or even a mindfulness exercise.

• Set up your work zone.

It is ideal to create a dedicated workspace that is separate from your living area. This helps maintain a clear distinction between work and personal life. Ensure your workspace is well-lit, and organized Invest in equipment such as an ergonomic chair and adjust your monitor height to prevent discomfort. Surround yourself with things that inspire you and create a positive atmosphere. Add photos, plants, or artwork that motivates and reflects your personality.

• Establish boundaries.

Clearly communicate your working hours to colleagues and clients. Set expectations by using tools like scheduling apps and “Do Not Disturb” functions when needed. Though it’s tempting to check emails or answer messages after work hours, train yourself to resist by logging off at the end of your workday. Don’t be afraid to decline additional work if it would overload you. Communicate your workload and politely explain if you need to push back deadlines.

• Make self-care a non-negotiable priority.

Make time to move your body. Regular physical activity is a powerful stress reliever. Schedule time for exercise, whether it’s a morning jog, a lunchtime yoga session, or an evening walk. Try to also be mindful of what you eat. What you eat impacts your energy levels and mood. Focus on a healthy diet that fuels your body and mind. Make time for relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing exercises. These practices help manage stress and promote calmness. Also, adequate sleep is crucial for stress management and overall well-being. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night. Lastly, schedule time away from screens. Take breaks to read a book, spend time in nature, or connect with loved ones in person.

• Keep in touch.

Remote work can feel isolating so try to schedule regular video calls with colleagues for team meetings and informal chats. You can use online platforms to connect with friends and family, participate in virtual game nights, and movie nights, or simply chat online to maintain social connections. Don’t become a hermit! Make an effort to meet up with colleagues or friends for coffee, lunch, or co-working sessions outside of the home.

• Reach out for help.

Talk to your manager if you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed. They can offer support and help ensure your workload is manageable. Some companies offer wellness programs— like Filta which gives their community members access to Wellness Specialists for confidential counseling and support services, and wellness sessions and programs. Through this, you can connect with other remote workers online or in your community. Share experiences, offer support, and learn stress-management strategies from others.

Ultimately, being kind to yourself is the best solution to manage your stress. There will be days when you feel less productive or more stressed. Don’t beat yourself up. Acknowledge your emotions and practice self-compassion. 

Remote work will always present a unique set of challenges, just take note that stress management is a continuous process. Experiment with different techniques and find what works best for you. Don’t be afraid to adjust your approach along the way. As you learn to prioritize your well-being, you’ll discover increased productivity, improved focus, and a greater sense of satisfaction in your remote work life. Embrace the convenience that remote work offers, while building a healthy and balanced approach that empowers you to succeed and thrive.