When the work from home movement first started, everyone was excited. We didn’t have to contend with long hours of commute and being stuck in terrible traffic. We could prepare a healthy breakfast at home instead of grabbing a 500 calorie bagel and overpriced designed coffee on our way to work. It takes all of 15 minutes to go from “just woke up” to “virtual meeting ready.” We loved the idea of being able to reclaim our time back while social distancing.
However, work demands are now going back to normal. Some of us have started going back to the office. Some of us have retained the ability to work from home. And some of us get to enjoy the best of both worlds with a hybrid work set-up – some days going to the office and some days working from home.
However, the threat of the virus has not waned. Just recently, Europe has seen another spike in their COVID-19 cases making it the onset of the 4th wave of the pandemic. This means that our worries are far from over and it’s taking a toll on a lot of employees.
There’s been a lot on our minds lately, from keeping ourselves and our loved ones safe, to worrying about work and responsibilities. It doesn’t help that because of digital technology, most of our workdays are spent jumping from one virtual meeting to the next. This is why a lot of employees report burnout and depleted energy levels.
If you think of your energy levels as a rechargeable battery, they only last so long before they need to be recharged. It doesn’t help that energy-depleting behaviors like worrying, consuming bad news, having health risks, focusing on negative thoughts, and having a bleak outlook abound in this pandemic era.
Some simple changes to our daily routine can help recharge our depleted batteries. Here are some examples:
- Getting enough sleep
- Incorporating movement into your day
- Eating a balanced diet
- Taking breaks
- Staying away from the news
- Looking for good news
- Focusing on one task at a time
- Meditating
- Journaling
- Spending time with loved ones
- Reading
- Practicing gratitude
Among these tips, the most helpful in recharging your batteries is spending time with loved ones. An often-quoted “75-Year Harvard Study” shows that the secret to leading a fulfilling life is having quality relationships. It’s not about having 20,000 friends on Facebook. It is the quality of your close relationships that matters. Simply put, good relationships keep us happier and healthier.
If you’re facing burnout or if you find yourself being overwhelmed with worry and negative thoughts that are affecting your work and wellbeing, take time off and spend it with loved ones. If you can only do one thing to improve the quality of your life, it is this. So, find ways to strengthen and improve your relationships and create a tribe that will support you and helps you thrive.
What tips do you have to become more fulfilled and productive? Remember to work smart and be a blessing to someone today. Stay safe and healthy!
Written by Jaie O. TheHelp