Before COVID-19, according to the Federal Bureau of Labor Statistics and their published 2019 National Compensation Survey (NCS), approximately 7 percent of American workers had access to a flexible work environment, which allowed them to work from home. Currently, the estimate is that about 56 percent of U.S. employees are and can be working from home. Working from home has become a possibility for many, and it is probable that it will continue this way even after quarantine is over. Telecommuting can be a stressful and unpredictable change for working professionals. Learning how to manage stress and sustain productivity is crucial to the inevitable changes we face during a global pandemic.
COVID-19 and Working from Home
Working from home can be beneficial to both the employee and employer. It can reduce commute and labor costs, as well as limit distractions and thus result in higher productivity. It also has its drawbacks, which include less face-to-face interaction and employers not being able to see how their employees spend their time. Because of COVID-19, a large number of U.S. companies are now running their business online with their employees working remotely. For many, it isn’t easy. With daycares and schools closed, employees are facing a challenging experience of homeschooling, taking care of young children, and fulfilling deadlines. Between home life and work, stress may feel overwhelming and almost unbearable.
How Can I Make Working from Home Less Stressful?
Working from home can be difficult and stressful, but it’s important to focus on adapting to the current situation. With a dedicated workspace at home, productivity can improve and change the overall outlook on the situation. A second suggestion is to work from different parts of the home, such as the couch, dining room table, desk, and so on. Changing up where you work and how you work can feel like you’re not ‘stuck’ in the everyday, mundane routine. The key is to make yourself comfortable and calm in any setting that you create for yourself.
Another suggestion is to create a schedule or time frame of when you’re working and when you’re “home from work”. This can help to create a more disciplined daily schedule, as well as set boundaries with your family and coworkers. At the end of the day, your goal is to focus on feeling motivated and stress-free.
Additional tips include: taking walks during your breaks, limiting your time on social media, and eating healthy foods that stimulate your creativity.
The World After COVID-19 – Will I Continue To Work Remotely?
A major question that many are asking - “If I can do my job from home now, can I continue to do it from home once we’re released from quarantine”? While some companies are currently working remotely, it may not be a long-term solution. Others, on the other hand, are adapting to their teams working from home and are strategizing to offer this as a future possibility. A study by Upwork predicts that, by 2028, over 70 percent of businesses will hire remote workers.
Stress and Counseling
Undoubtedly, this year is causing an increased amount of stress across the world. Whether it be work related or not, it is important to assess how you are feeling and find ways to cope with your emotions. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health- continue to take care of your whole wellbeing. If you are experiencing any stress, depression or anxiety, counseling can improve your situation. You CAN feel better. We can HELP. Contact us to learn if Enteave Counseling would be beneficial for you, and schedule an appointment here. Remember that this situation is only temporary and we will all get through this together.
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If you are struggling with your mental health, the counselors at Enteave Counseling are here for you, we are accepting new clients and have flexible hours available.
Lisa Skalla LCSW and Adam Paine LCSW are licensed therapists at Enteave Counseling and are experts at treating anxiety and stress. Read more about them here.