Escaping the Work Trap: Addressing the Major Challenge of Remote Employment

Remote work is shaping up to be the future of how we work. With the pandemic changing everything, the typical 9-to-5 job setup is becoming a thing of the past. Thanks to lockdowns and social distancing measures, many tech companies like Twitter, Amazon, Google, and Apple are transitioning to remote work as the new normal. Businesses that don’t adapt might struggle.

Working remotely offers several benefits for both companies and employees. It can boost productivity, reduce costs, and generally make everyone happier—or at least that’s the hope. But just like any work setup, remote work comes with its own set of challenges. One major issue people face is the difficulty of “unplugging” from work. This is especially important now that remote work is becoming more common.

Unplugging from work means detaching from work tasks and responsibilities. In a traditional office setting, leaving work behind when you head home comes naturally. However, when you’re working from home, it’s hard to distinguish between work time and personal time. Successfully unplugging leads to lower stress, better health, and higher productivity.

Here are some practical tips to help you unplug while working from home:

Many imagine working from home as relaxing in bed with a coffee and laptop, but it’s more effective to have a designated workspace. This space helps maintain focus and create a clear separation between work and home life. Pick a quiet and private spot in your house if others are around.

Remote work is about flexibility, but that doesn’t mean you should work haphazardly. Establish a clear schedule and stick to it, focusing solely on your tasks during work hours. Fully engaging in your work ensures that when you’re done, you can truly unwind.

When you finish for the day and let your colleagues know you’re signing off, close your laptop. Avoid letting email notifications drag you back into work-mode. Disable them to focus on personal life. It might even help to turn off or silence your phone. Often, the Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) keeps us tied to work, but you can shift that to a Joy of Missing Out (JOMO) by finding other fulfilling activities.

Don’t stay in one spot all day. After work, spend time with family and friends or go for a walk. This will help you refresh and recharge.

Find hobbies to keep you active and engaged. YouTube is full of videos on learning new skills and finding like-minded communities. Whether it’s a sport or a book club, choose an activity that helps you step away from your workspace and connect with others.