For some, it might be what was always dreamt of: no longer do you have to wake up hours earlier to start your commute into the office and no longer do you have to deal with any office politics that lies underneath the surface. Although working from home has its perks, it can also have its drawbacks.
Isolation
Working from home can be very lonely. If your job doesn’t entail communicating with a wider team on a regular basis, you can find yourself going days without talking to anyone. This can be particularly damaging, especially if you feel vulnerable and anxious, as it makes you feel more alone. Try to keep in regular contact with your fellow co-workers and line managers. Or if you work for yourself, try to keep in regular contact with friends and family. Share with them any anxieties you might have as they too may be in the same situation.
Lack of routine
Having a routine plays a big part in making us feel more in control of our surroundings. When you’re in the office, you’ll have a clear start time and end time, as well as meetings and breaks when you choose to fit them in. At home, the lines become blurred and you no longer have that structure. You may find that you start work at different times and in turn, end up working past clock-off time. Sticking to a consistent sleep and work pattern will make it easier for you to separate work and home life, as well as making you feel more productive throughout the day.
No boundaries
When you are working from the office, it is easier to come home and switch off. However, when your office is the kitchen table, it can be even more tempting to answer those late-night emails or continue working straight through the day without any breaks. It may feel harder to justify breaks and finishing work when you don’t think you’ve been as productive as you would have been in the office, but remember everyone is in the same position, and being too hard on yourself will only bring negativity.
To find out how psychology can help you manage your feelings while working from home and have a more positive frame of mind, I have created a self-care toolbox to help you all to find balance and improve your quality of life.
