Why Having A Routine At The End Of The Day When You Work From Home Is Crucial
Since 2020, thousands of people have found a job working from home. Due to the high demand, many more businesses began offering this perk with their hiring packages, and most who try it seem to really enjoy the flexibility and productivity that comes from this option. In fact, a recent census study found that the number of people working from home tripled from 2019 to 2021.
Although this is a fantastic option for those who like to keep things running at home as well as at their job, it can be difficult to draw a line between personal life and professional. For some, it's challenging to know when to stop working.
Most who choose their home as their office know it's more important to establish a morning and daytime routine to stay on track and to be productive throughout the day. However, having an evening routine is essential for you to shut off the professional part of yourself so that you can relish in your personal endeavors.
Why a routine is important
When working from home became an option for more people, it seemed too good to be true for both businesses and their employees. Not having staff report saves money for companies in their day-to-day operations. In addition, employees enjoy saving time and money by not having to commute to and from work.
However, the longer you engage in working from home, the blurrier the lines get between your professional and personal life. According to We Work Remotely, there is a danger of burnout associated with working from home. Especially for those who need to create, edit, and promote. The temptation to squeeze work in wherever you can is always present.
Without a clear boundary between work and personal life, workers risk the mental fatigue that comes with always being on the clock. This can add to an increase in stress, anxiety, and depression.
By allowing yourself time to clock out, you are giving yourself the gift of leisure that we all need to live a balanced life. An evening routine after clocking out can help your brain reset and appreciate your personal time even more.
Ideas for an evening routine
Before you consider allowing yourself to answer just one more email or accept just one more online meeting, decide on a time to quit working for the day and stick to it. Consider adding an email notice or a notice on your company's chat app that shows you are out of the office and unreachable. By physically closing your computer, cleaning your workspace, and leaving the room where you worked all day, you can work to mentally unplug from the day's responsibilities.
In addition, do something for your physical well-being. Plan a workout for a time after the end of your work day and take care of your body. You can find great workout apps or videos online, but you may want to consider scheduling one outside of your home. Even taking a walk can be beneficial.
Consider preparing a healthy meal for yourself and your family, and try to make time to eat together. Finally, if you can find time to spend a little time with family or friends before calling it a day, it will feed your soul.
Before bed, set out your clothes and the supplies you need for the next day, and rest feeling organized and prepared. Repeat this routine the next day.
An evening routine is essential for our mental and physical health when working from home. Consider your end time, and the personal things you'd like to get done, and organize your evening to achieve these personal goals.