If you are working from home, you know what it’s like to feel burnt out from constant emails, video conferencing and staring at a computer in the same spot for 8 hours and sometimes more. It is exhausting! Often times, after sitting and staring at my computer screen for 8 hours, I just want to crawl in bed and do nothing else. I usually feel unmotivated, burnt out, and just over it.
To combat this, I started implementing mandatory breaks. Yes, I said mandatory, meaning I make myself take breaks throughout my workday. Otherwise, I will sit and stare at my computer screen for 8 hours. I will literally set my alarm for my breaks throughout the day to keep me on schedule. Taking breaks from work is a form of self-care for me. It gives me a chance to step away from my computer for a second and reset and gives me some time to focus on something else that is not work-related. After my breaks, I feel refreshed and ready to get back to my work. Breaks help me stay motivated and productive throughout the day.
Here are a few things I like to do during my breaks to take my mind off of work. You can set your break times depending on your work schedule.
1. Take a walk. I am a huge lover of the outdoors, minus the bugs, so if the weather is nice and the sun is out, sometimes I will go outside and take a walk. Checking out different scenery outside the walls of my apartment is a for sure way to get my mind off of work and help me feel refreshed.
2. Read a book. Reading a book is like watching a movie in your head. It’s also very therapeutic and takes my mind off of work. If you have some time to read a couple pages in a book, I highly encourage you to do that.
3. Stretch. Stretching is a huge stress reliever for me. Stretching is often my go-to break activity if work is stressful or frustrating. Stretching calms me down, helps me to feel relaxed and clears my mind so I can go back to work with a clear head and different mindset.
4. Eat. Eating is definitely one of my favorite things to do while I’m on my break. Whether it’s lunch time or I’m indulging in my favorite snack, what better way to take my mind off work than by tending to a growling stomach or a snack craving.
5. Phone a friend. One of my breaks is designated to chatting and catching up on the phone with my best friend. Our conversations are so unpredictable and full of laughter that sometimes I go over my break time talking on the phone. She always brings me joy and helps to take my mind off of work.