We are all remote now. And we love our jobs! But after hours of email upon email and never-ending phone conferences, even the best of us can face burnout. To find out how to successfully combat—even avoid—this phenomenon, we asked our startup founders (a.k.a., the hardest-working people we know) what strategies they rely on. Here’s what they had to say.
Have a morning routine
Set up a morning ritual. When you work out or take time to meditate then shower and get dressed, you’ll find it easier to psychologically transition your mind to work.
Define your workspace
Set up a physical workspace and set boundaries for everyone in the house. Let them know when it’s okay to distract you and when it’s not. This will help switch you from a “home” to a “work” mindset.
Check your internet
Slow speeds can really be infuriating especially when dealing with work-related communication. Upgrade to a faster, steady service provider.
Track your time
If you think you are spinning in circles doing unproductive work, use a time-tracking app. This could help you work better, smarter, and more efficiently. Alternatively, set specific goals for each day and get an accountability partner.
Take breaks
Take regular breaks in between work. Schedule time to exercise, snack, and interact with other folks in your household. Something as simple as taking a day off, going for a bike ride, or having a fun evening with family can help to take the edge off. Schedule free time on your calendar, just like you would schedule a meeting, and stick to it. It’s crucial to take the time you need for yourself, even if it’s just 30 minutes a day. You’ll get back to work feeling recharged and inspired, and chances are, you’ll accomplish a lot more than you would if you worked straight through the day. Find ways to detach and practice mindfulness during the week in a way that works for you. Meditation and yoga throughout the week can also help you to detach and re-center. Be mindful of those moments.
Be empathetic
People have a lot going on at the moment. Emotions are high. Be flexible as remote work brings folks’, families and pets into the corporate space.
Take time to connect
Set aside time regularly for your team to talk about non-work related items to mimic the social interaction that comes naturally with work. You can have virtual parties to celebrate important days such as birthdays or anniversaries.
Talk to someone when you get stressed and provide a listening ear to colleagues. A problem shared, is a problem half solved. You might help someone stay sane.
Share information
Ensure all employees know how the company is doing, what measures you are taking, and what services and benefits are accessible to them. This might help relieve the stress of uncertainty.
Fill your day with joy
Our business works to fill our people’s day with what they love. When work feels like a job, we redirect those tasks to someone who loves them. Not a great organizer? We have a team member who is. Hate numbers? We’ve got someone who loves them. When work is a blast, burnout doesn’t exist.