While WFH is the new normal and allows you to work at your own pace and comfort, it is vital to put your well-being as a top priority. The pandemic has been radically changed the way we functioned forever. From our normal day-to-day lives to our workstations, all were transformed. We all were studying, playing, and working from home giving rise to the Work-from-home culture. While the trend gave us the benefit of working from the comfort of our homes but it has also taken a toll on our mental wellbeing. Even though we have ditched the long commutes and the burnout due to that but still most of us complain about the draining feeling at the end of the day. Have you wondered why? It is because you are not incorporating enough during the day. How important are these microbreaks? Microbreaks are essentially small breaks from work that can as small and brief as five minutes. Experts have spoken about the benefits of these breaks in abundance. The Journal of Applied Psychology said that microbreaks give a unique opportunity of having greater control over the energy reserves throughout the day. Here are some of the ways you can incorporate small breaks into your WFH routine. Try to block off some time prior on your calendar Start blocking some off periods in your calendar before starting the work for the day. For example, set aside fifteen minutes in the morning and then 20 minutes in the afternoon for the break. During that time read, relax, meditate, or even take a power nap to rejuvenate yourself. Just do anything that does not include work. Statics shows that most people don’t take a break, even for the meals. By blocking the calendar, you can clearly balance your life and work responsibilities in a better way. Don’t feel guilty about taking breaks You need to understand that breaks are nowhere hampering your productivity. Instead, it is a way to maximize your productivity. So, stop feeling guilty about taking that much-needed break and reduce the strain and mental fatigue you are subjecting yourself to. Set your boundaries and stay firm about it Try to set your boundaries over “me time” and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Trust us, there is no presentation, no meeting that can’t wait for 15 or 20 minutes. So, if anyone forces you to state the urgency of the situation, explain to them your boundaries and stay firm on it The first and the foremost step towards getting a productive day is a less fatigued and stressed mind.
