These are the only 6 ways to truly abate WFH burnout

If you’re like me, you dreamt of the day you could work from home.

Who wouldn’t love working in their sweats while watching the kids run around the playroom? You could work when you want, wear what you want, and eat when you want.

Fast forward to today when millions of people are suddenly working from home unexpectedly. It’s been almost one year, and many are still at home. Some love it, and some still aren’t sure. 

I am in the ‘love it’ camp, but I know what it’s like to experience work-from-home burnout. Here are the top ways I fight it.

1. Take breaks

It’s easy to sit at your computer and work all day. You’re at home. You can be the command center, but still, get your work done. But at the office, you likely got up several times a day to walk to a co-worker’s office, go to lunch, or run work errands. 

Do this at home too. Even if you get up every hour and just stretch for five minutes or walk around the house – move your body.

2. Set time limits

When you work-from-home, there aren’t any boundaries. You can’t leave work behind you because it’s always there.

Set up specific work times, so you know when it’s quitting time. Shut the computer off and transition to your home life, even if your commute is only ten steps long.

3. Create a routine

Even if you don’t leave the house and don’t see anyone on Zoom, get yourself ready.

You’ll feel better about yourself and may even be more productive. Shower, put makeup on, and get dressed like you’re going to work. It may feel silly, but you’ll feel more empowered.

4. Fake a commute

Remember when you had in the car to gear up for a day at work or wind down after a long day?

When you work-from-home, you lose that time, but it’s time to gain it back. Don’t jump out of bed and start working. Give yourself quiet time – time to journal, drink coffee or work out.

The same is true at the end of the day. Take 5 to 10 minutes to relax, put the day behind you, and transition into family life.

5. Meal plan

Working from home doesn’t mean you have more time to cook. If you’re anything like me, you may have fewer meals planned because you figure you’re home and can figure it out.

Don’t leave it to the last minute. Plan your meals at the start of the week and include crockpot and instant pot meals, so you have food ready and don’t have to cook after work. Just because you’re home doesn’t mean you have more time.

6. Create your own ‘space’

Make your own office, even if you don’t have an office. Get a comfy chair, a desk you’ve always wanted, or just decorate an area that makes it feel like ‘work’ for you. This way, when you step into your ‘office,’ you’re in work mode, but when you leave it, you’re in family mode.

Working from home can be rewarding and challenging at the same time. See what works for you so you avoid burnout and can stay productive.

Self-care is one of the most important things you can do for yourself and your family. Don’t feel guilty making special arrangements for yourself – instead, be proud that you’re making the best of your situation.