Then, in 2020, as the global pandemic struck, working from home became the new norm in countless households worldwide. According to the UK's Office for National Statistics, the percentage of the UK workforce working from home skyrocketed from 27% in 2019 to a staggering 48% in March 2020.
But what happens when the lines between work and home become blurry? When our living space transforms into our workspace, and daily rituals vanish? The days merge, meetings spill over, and the boundaries slowly erode. The click of your laptop replaces the commute, but that valuable decompression time is lost to additional work.
At Vyou, where a remote-first structure is ingrained in our DNA, this topic hits close to home for our entire team. We are deeply invested in finding solutions to maintain a healthy work-life balance in this new reality.
Here are 5 actionable things you can do to separate work from home and prioritise your wellbeing:
Establish Rituals
Create specific rituals or transition routines to mark the beginning and end of your workday. This could be as simple as taking a short walk, practicing mindfulness, or enjoying a cup of tea.
Define Dedicated Workspace
Designate a specific area in your home as your workspace. This helps create a physical boundary between work and personal life, aiding in focus and mental separation.
Set Clear Boundaries:
Communicate your work hours and availability to your colleagues and family members. Establishing clear boundaries ensures that interruptions and expectations are managed effectively.
Schedule Breaks:
Incorporate regular breaks throughout your workday to recharge and rejuvenate. Use this time to step away from your workspace, engage in physical activity, or simply relax.
Practice Self-Care:
Prioritise self-care activities outside of work. Engage in hobbies, spend quality time with loved ones, and make time for activities that bring you joy and nourish your well-being.
Remember, maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for your overall happiness and productivity. By implementing these actionable steps, you can reclaim the separation between work and home, fostering wellbeing in both domains.
