Setting Work From Home Boundaries
Are you working from home—either permanently as a remote worker or temporarily during the pandemic? Many people working from home feel the days blending together, with no real feeling of having time off. Additionally, employers may be concerned with the productivity of their workers working from home. While working from home is a privilege, no one said it would be easy. Since working from home will certainly be with us for a while, read on for some tips on getting work from home boundaries and learning why this is essential.
Why are work from home boundaries important?
One word: burnout. When you’re trying to answer emails on the weekends or finish up a presentation while watching a movie on Friday night, this can affect your well-being. Employees can experience burnout in their job and life when they don’t have enough time away from work. While you feel you need simply survive this time, you also need to find time and space for your non-work existence and identity.
Quality time with your family suffers when you lack boundaries with work. Setting clear boundaries may be appreciated by family and introduce more opportunities to be present with your loved ones. Your personal quality of life can suffer without boundaries. Setting work from home boundaries can reduce conflict and stress, and also improve your mental and physical health. For most of us who use technology to work in some form, constantly being plugged into technology for work is not healthy either.
Importantly, your productivity can suffer. Without taking time off, your energy levels, focus, and overall productivity can plummet. Your level of professionalism can also suffer when work from home boundaries are not defined. Personal life and professional life can bleed together. You need to plan and be organized, and commit to your boundaries in order to be productive.
How to set work from home boundaries
1) Physical boundaries
Setting physical boundaries can help you when working from home. If possible, use a dedicated workspace. Otherwise, the whole house is a workspace and boundaries quickly blur between work and life. Put on work clothes when you begin work, and change into non-work clothes when you’re done. Replace your commute with another ritual—like taking a walk around the block or to the park. At the end of the workday, listen to podcasts or music and let yourself let go of the day. If you plan to work from home for a while, invest in a quality desk and chair or anti-fatigue mat for a comfortable office set-up. Try to use separate devices for home and work–save the iPad for binging Netflix.
2) Social boundaries
Setting boundaries with others can be difficult, but remember to be flexible. Let family and roommates know that just because you work from home does not mean you aren’t busy. You are still at work, and you can’t usually drop whatever you’re doing for them. Have a conversation with those you live with about your work schedule and what you need from them, including your kids.
Try using a sign on your door when you cannot be disturbed (are in a meeting with a client) and other times when it’s okay to pop in for a quick question (catching up on emails). This can also be signaled by a closed or open door. Headphones are a must for many who work from home and can be a great signifier you are busy as well. If you are really struggling with setting boundaries with your kids, hire a babysitter for even a few hours a week if you can find one safe during the pandemic.
3) Boundaries on your time
Setting a work schedule, especially at the end of the daytime, is absolutely vital for employees that work at home. You may have to adjust your 9-5 schedule, especially if your kids are at home, so work with your boss and be flexible if possible. Try setting an out-of-office reply with your office hours on your email and only schedule meetings during the times you said you are at work. Work in time chunks–try getting up early and working on projects. If afternoons are quiet, use that time to focus. Answer emails and messages when there are more chances for the interruption. Figure out what works for you and your employer, put it on your calendar, and stick to it. Don’t forget to schedule a lunch (or breakfast or dinner) break! And if possible, try to totally unplug at least one day a week.
4) Prioritization
Now is not the time for busy work. Prioritize what is actually important at work, instead of what is easy to accomplish or right in front of you that day. Focus on important work instead of busyness to appear productive. Also–practice saying no at work to projects you aren’t responsible for. This helps you prioritize what’s really important.
5) Rituals
Rituals can cue your brain that it’s time for work. Try using your office mug, pen, or sweater every time you work from home. You can also set up a morning ritual that helps you move into work. Again, routines can signal your brain and body it’s time to work (or rest or create or workout).
Are you looking for more support during this stressful time? Please reach out to us. Our team of therapists is here to provide support and guidance. We look forward to connecting with you.
