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Remote work became popular during the covid 19 pandemic, and people had to make a living in their homes. However, working for long hours in a confined environment might lead to demotivation, unlike in a typical workspace where there is social interaction to break the monotony. Even though you will be taking breaks and working with your schedule, without good ideas, these breaks might further kill your productivity by making you appear lazy. This article will provide five break ideas you can implement to clear your head and enhance productivity while working remotely.
Strolling
Strolling can be in different forms, including but not limited to going to the shop or checking on something away from your house. Accordingly, you’ll enjoy several psychological benefits that will help you break the monotony and prepare for your next assignment. For instance, strolling improves the functioning of your brain and memory hence clear thinking and brainstorming of new ideas. It also steadily increases your heartbeat, thus improving the blood flow. Better blood circulation enhances your creative skills hence more productivity.
Taking a walk triggers the production of happiness hormones such as endorphin that improves your mood. Furthermore, walking around breathing fresh air enhances contemplation. You’re more likely to discover solutions to a dilemma or connect the dots of a puzzling situation. Besides, it has physical benefits such as stronger bones that will boost your endurance.
Going Out for Lunch with Friends/Colleagues
Rather than having lunch at your work desk, go to a restaurant or any social place offering excellent meals. You might run into a friend, and the little interaction you may have will help you clear your head for a fresh subsequent work session. Physical interactions have been proven to boost morale and are suitable for mental wellness. According to some experts, individuals who take lunch breaks away from their work environment are more productive than those who have their meals at workstations. Switching venues help you change context, which refills your mental power. Going out for lunch also helps you avoid multitasking, such as answering phone calls while eating. It drains the quality of your work. In addition, it helps you avoid overfeeding, which is a result of distracted lunch breaks.
Eating Healthy
The foods you eat have a significant impact on your productivity. Some foods, such as chocolates, will slow you down, while others will help you improve your brain functioning and memory. For instance, Fatty fish is rich in Omega 3s that develop your brain and nerve cells hence better mental health. When you break for lunch, you could opt to prepare a homemade meal with foods that will refill your psychological and physical energy for prolonged endurance during the day. Unfortunately, sometimes it is difficult to determine if certain foods are healthy for your body or not. Here is where a diet coach comes in. Since you work from home, you can find an online nutrition coach for guidance on healthy eating.
Working Out
Spending all day indoors working might lead to fatigue, hindering your productivity. However, exercises will help you break the monotony. It can be visiting a gym, going for a run, or going biking. In addition, there are plenty of free online exercises such as yoga that you can learn from the comfort of your living room or backyard. Similarly, dancing is also a form of exercise. You do not need to be a superstar at it. Simple moves are good to keep you going. It improves your blood flow and mood for a more productive day.
Bonding with Family
Sometimes remote careers deprive your social life, killing your connection with your family and friends. However, you can fill this gap by using your breaks to connect with them. It can be through social media, telephone calls, or face-to-face communication. Whatever the means you find convenient, forget the work stress for a while and connect with your beloved ones. As much as you will be refilling your mental power, you will fill the emotional gap between you and them. It’s a great way to manifest your presence in their lives.
Working from home is excellent, but you might end up emotionally drained and lonely without a good strategy. It is essential to incorporate ideas in your routine that will boost your motivation and productivity. Try out the above activities to enhance your performance.