The changes professionals have had to face in order to work from home due to the COVID-19 pandemic have complicated their routines and patterns even more. For many, these changes are generating an ever-increasing and continuous amount of stress. Some of the challenges encountered by professionals who are working from home during this crisis include adapting to new technologies like Zoom and Teams. In addition to the stress of having to learn new skills, the switch to virtual communications also diminishes much-needed personal contact, which further contributes to anxiety and depression.
Another challenge is spending entire work shifts at home with spouses, children, or elderly parents. Working in a house full of people means more distractions and interruptions. Besides, many workers feel they are less productive, which causes additional stress. This is exacerbated by the feeling many have that there is no end in sight to this pandemic.
Dealing with routine changes
Many feel they are stressing out for good reason, and that the only way to control it is to wait for things to return to normal. If this is your case, you should first acknowledge that feeling stressed out could be making things worse and keeping you from thinking clearly and being productive. It is important to try to keep this feeling under control. Try breathing deeply and taking short breaks to clear your mind or meditate. You can also try distracting yourself with other activities, such as vigorous exercise.
Balancing responsibilities
It is possible to design work arrangements that will allow people to be productive while also taking care of their families. It is important to work as a team with the other household members. Establish clear guidelines and rules, as well as a basic schedule. Make sure to include time to address the needs of your children and others who depend on you; but also make time to focus exclusively on work.
Garner your family’s support
Spouses, children, and other loved ones can help those working from home. The team approach works equally fine here. Keep in mind any activities others do that have been disruptive or problematic, such as high noise levels from the TV or video games. When everyone expresses interest in helping, you can feel the relief and solidarity.
Talk to your boss and colleagues
Many are feeling concern over the economy and the possibility of losing their jobs. This makes it harder to express vulnerability in front of colleagues and superiors. If you know some of your coworkers will support you, seek them out, talk to them, and find out what they are doing to overcome the situation. Many may find it difficult to ask their coworkers or supervisors for help during this time. However, by taking care of each other, superiors and coworkers can all become compassionate allies during a difficult time.
To protect your team’s health, learn here about the plans Triple-S offers for small and medium businesses.
