Helping you find a good work/life balance
Since working from home has become the new normal for millions, it’s crucial to find a way to separate work from leisure. It seems harmless to check your emails whilst watching TV or replying to a couple of messages when you’re off the clock, but it all adds up. If you’re struggling to sleep due to project deadlines or customer conversations replaying in your head at night, here are some tips for when you can’t switch off from work.
End Your Work Hours With Daily Affirmations
Daily affirmations are a chance for you to reflect on what you’ve achieved during the working day and ensure that you reward yourself for your accomplishments. By jotting down a couple of reasons why you’re a hard worker or speaking them aloud to yourself, you’ll end up looking forward to this moment of reflection as each day comes to a close. This will also get you into the habit of switching off once you’ve completed some daily affirmations, as you’ll become conditioned into ending the day positively.
Put Your Work Equipment Out of Sight
Out of sight, out of mind, as they say. This applies to your work equipment, as you most likely feel drawn to it even when you’re not actually working. Whether your dining room table is covered in papers or you need to get changed out of your work clothes, put your job away! Try to keep your work equipment together and in a different room from where you like to wind down.
If You Can’t Switch Off From Work, Switch off Your Notifications
One of the biggest reasons why people can’t switch off from work is the constant reminder from notifications on their phone. From WhatsApp group chats to LinkedIn connections buzzing in your pocket every minute, work is always there. Well, it’s time to switch off your notifications at the end of the day! This will make all the difference with letting your mind take a break from your role’s responsibilities. Don’t feel bad about not being available 24/7, as you’re allowed to have downtime - you’re human.
Indulge in Your Hobbies
Indulging in your hobbies often comes with guilt for not being productive enough. This definitely shouldn’t be the case! Any time you spend doing what you love is productive enough. Rolling up your sleeves to bake a delicious recipe, going for a bike ride, reading a book or doing whatever makes you happy will give you a chance to breathe. Taking a step back from work and focusing on fulfilling hobbies will make you feel re-energized, which is a must for your mental health. You’ll also be able to perform better at work because of this, as you’re creating time just for you outside of it.
Take Control of Conversation
By regularly participating in conversations about your role, it’ll naturally be difficult to switch off from work because it seeps into your personal life too. When a family member or friend asks you about it, you’re entitled to push the conversation in another direction. Your loved ones are showing interest and care about what you’re up to, but you can keep your answer short and sweet if you don’t want to discuss it.
On the other hand, talking about work may help you release frustration if you’re struggling through a stressful scenario. Confiding in someone might give you a chance to get the thoughts out of your head and out in the open. You may feel like a weight has been lifted once you let it go.
These are just a few helpful tips for when you can’t switch off from work. Remember that your health and happiness should always be the priority and that everyone switches off differently. It’s about figuring out what’s best for you!
Lauren x
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