Is Remote Work More Stressful?

Most people have been embracing remote work now more than ever, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic struck our world. To some, they view remote work as a luxurious activity, just like playing 50 free spins games. There is no dress code when working at home, so you can just wear your pyjamas and work. Additionally, there is no supervision, no commuting, and you can work wherever you want. In short, you have all the freedom you have always wanted. 

However, working at home can have some challenges, which might make you stressed up or burned out. In this article, we will check out how remote work can be more stressful and what you can do to manage the stressors.

What is Stressful About Remote Work?

According to a study, those who tend to work at home experience more stress levels than those who do not. Forty-one per cent of those who were doing remote work were more stressed than 25% of people who worked at their job destinations. But what may cause remote work to be so stressful? Below are some of the common causes those who work at home experience.

Too Many Distractions

It is obvious that working at home means no supervision. Thus, you might find yourself distracted a lot. Some of the distractions most people face while remote working includes:

• Watching TV,
• Frequently checking your social media pages,
• Caring for your pets,
• Small children who demand attention,
• Balancing work with family,
• Noise from the TV, radio, kids playing, or gardeners,
• Playing video games,
• Spending time cleaning the house or cooking.

At home, you have all things that give you comfort, and this can be tempting. So, without discipline, you will find yourself giving in to the distractions. Besides, you will also have a problem setting up boundaries.

Lack of Proper Structure

While working at home, you may find yourself lacking a proper schedule. You will not know when to have a break, take lunch, or finish off your work. This can be a bigger problem for those with families and small children.

Less Physical Exercise

Unless you are engaging in exercises, then working at home can make you less active. This, in turn, can have a big impact on your overall health. If you have been less active during the day, then you will not be tired during the night. Lack of sleep can affect your work.

Social Isolation

Furthermore, working at home will find you in isolation. You will not have the chance to go out more often, meet and talk to clients, or joke around with your workmates. So, you will find yourself worrying more about being alone.

Tips for Managing Stress from Remote Working

If you are working at home and feeling stressed, know that you are not alone. Fortunately, you can try out several things to reduce the stress and pressure of remote working. Below are a few things to help you manage the stress:

1. Create a schedule: Mark the start and the end of the day. Create a routine on what you will be doing in the morning and during your breaks.
2. Reduce distractions: Switch off your phone when working. Use noise cancellation headphones if noises from outside are causing distractions.
3. Stay in touch with your friends and family.
4. Always reward yourself.
5. Have enough sleep.
6. Practice self-care.
7. Create a specific and comfortable workplace.