Avoiding stress when Working From Home

During these times of uncertainty, many people have been left with no jobs. Others are involuntary pressed to work from home, while COVID-19 is spreading around the world. The lucky ones who still have jobs feel the pressure to keep them. The stress people are going through affects their personal lives, relationships, families, and overall health. It is critical to maintain your mental health sharp and remember that working where you live is not as easy as it sounds. Some people might even enjoy working from home in their created environment. But others who have to take care of children and homeschool them, cook, clean, and keep the high volume of productivity at their job might feel worn out, stressed, empty, and depressed. A United Nations report from three years ago found that 41% of remote workers reported high-stress levels than just 25% of office workers, mostly if people are not used to the WFH environment. Everyone who has ever held a job has, at some point, felt the pressure of work-related stress. Anxiety disorders, which affect 40 million adults in the United States, are the country's most common form of mental illness, according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America. This pandemic outbreak is causing stress, anxiety, and fear, which can increase when working from home and isolated from colleagues, friends, and family. Luckily there are techniques on how to cope with work-related stress and manage the required WFH situation. Five techniques to avoid the stress of working from home:

Make time to socialize Taking some time to socialize with your friends and coworkers will exercise your brain and provide stimulation; it is like exercising for your most important muscle- the brain. We are born into social groups and live our entire lives as a part of society, so pick up your phone and call your friends.

Create boundaries Create a workspace that is separated from your relaxing space emotionally and physically. Create boundaries during work, don't get distracted by home tasks, and relax. Don't get distracted by work. It's essential to create a schedule to have a daily routine; this way, you will get used to this new working situation quicker.

Meditate Taking a few minutes to meditate when you feel overwhelmed with work will help keep your stress levels low and increase overall well-being. While you're breathing deeply, turn your focus on each breath. With practice, you will find that your mind will be less distracted and more able to focus on each breath. Make some calming tea and stay positive throughout the day. Dress to de-stress One good thing about WFH is that you can wear pretty much whatever feels right and appropriate. Put on a pair of sweatpants and let your body relax while working. But don't forget the self-esteem boost and dress up occasionally. It could also increase your productivity.

Reward yourself People often forget to reward themselves after reaching the goal, completing a to-do list, work anniversary, or just being present 100%. WFH makes it even harder. No one will pat your back and say a good job. To stay positive, create your rewards for yourself.

It is up to you to create a pleasant, stress-free work environment at the end of the day, even in these challenging circumstances. There are many tools and tactics at the reach of your hands to make you feel better and keep your mind and body healthy. Focus on the benefits of the WFH situation and KEEP GOING.