Oh yes, it's a thing!
Despite remote work generally reducing overall burnout levels, the lack of clear boundaries between work and personal time has created new complexities. It's time to rethink what burnout is, and how to combat it.
Signs?
The signs are no different than regular burnout; as difficulty focusing, completing tasks, experiencing feelings of anger or sadness, insomnia, and physical symptoms like headaches and fatigue. Also, burnout, often associated with ongoing work stress, can also be triggered by specific events like layoffs or economic instability even among remote workers.
Risk Factors?
Remote work is unique because one of the perks is also a risk - reduced ability to decompress with work friends. While we can do this over digital platforms like Slack or Zoom, these are less effective than in-person socializing. Casual rituals like visiting the coffee machine or checking in with coworkers, which can relieve stress, are absent in remote work.
Also, many remote workers tend to work longer hours with fewer breaks. Both physical and mental pauses are crucial to prevent burnout, improve productivity, and minimize errors, irrespective of the work setting. Furthermore, the blurred boundaries between personal and professional life in a remote work environment can contribute to burnout. So.... now what?
Boundaries!
Wait, I need to set boundaries?? Yes, yes you do! Ok, so where do I get started? First, establish some simple work-life boundaries. Create a dedicated workspace at home and learn to WALK AWAY at the end of the day. If that's not an option, put your "space" away at the end of the day (the "clean desk" policy) to create a physical "break" between the work day and the non-work day. Consider starting and ending each work day with a small routine - getting that first cuppa or ending with a short "to do" list for the next day.
Take regular breaks like lunch or a 15-minute wander around the block. Stretch, read a magazine, hydrate, meditating, etc. If possible, coordinate with a coworker, neighbor, or friend. Finally, make time to re-charge. Vacations are great but so is a "digital-free" weekend which is less expensive and just as rejuvenating.
Recovery Plan!
This part is no different too - ya gotta have a plan! Recovery often requires time, planning, and a support system, and can take several months depending on the severity of burnout but, as always, the first step is acknowledging that you are burned out. From there, seek help from a support community, whether they are friends or professionals. Expressing feelings openly and involving friends in self-care activities will also help. More importantly, it will help you to establish healthy boundaries to prevent future burnout.
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