Four ways to balance working from home

It's not always easy to put one's own needs first. Considering how many of us are now telecommuting, this is more important than ever. In fact, 42% of the US workforce is now doing some or all of their jobs from home.

Though it's remarkable that nearly half of the US workforce has adapted to working remotely, it's also become clear that working from home presents its own set of unique challenges.

In order to deal with the stresses and worries that have become the new normal, it is essential to find a new work-life balance. Here are some suggestions that can assist you in striking a healthy balance between your professional and personal life.

Use apps

Why not take advantage of the fact that there is an app for everything?

The time it takes to complete mundane tasks can be greatly reduced with the help of the right app. Do you despise having to venture out to buy necessities like paper towels and wipes?

Cleaning supplies can be delivered so that you don't have to run out to the store and waste time getting them. Are you tired of the constant bickering between you and your roommates over who should empty the trash?

Assigning tasks to members of your household can help keep things running smoothly so that you can spend less time stressing over the little things and more time doing what you enjoy.

It's never going to be easy to balance day to day responsibilities with those of a family and a career, but there are ways to make it a little less of a challenge. Whether you are looking for a better way to budget or you have a feet fetish there is an app for you.

Construct limits

If you're a remote worker, your bedroom has probably been converted into an office. Even though it's great to be able to jump right out of bed and get to work, this way of life makes it challenging to keep work outside of the house.

By establishing and maintaining a routine, you will find that your time spent away from work improves dramatically. Work until 5 o'clock if you say it ends at 5, but no later.

Then, when the workday is done, put away work by turning off your computer or, at the very least, closing all open tabs pertaining to work. Take some time for yourself and unwind. You'll be a lot more content as a result.

Practice declining offers

You don't have to say yes every time someone asks you to do something - whether it's your boss at work or your little brother or sister at home. It's important to avoid taking on more than you can successfully complete, even if it means having to say "no" to well-meaning people.

According to the New York Times, being able to confidently and clearly express a "no" puts you in control of your own life. There is no shame in reserving a night for yourself to unwind and not have to answer to anyone but yourself.

Taking the wheel of your life means you get to decide what makes you happy and you can devote more time to the pursuits that truly excite you.

Try not to spend too much time behind a screen

When you work from home, you probably spend most of your day glued to your screen, with few opportunities to get up and socialise unless you use Zoom. Intense computer use has been linked to health problems like fatigue and eyestrain.

It's tempting to kick back after a long day by watching TV or browsing social media, but prioritising self-care and relaxation over screen time is a much better use of your free time.

For the sake of your mental health, try establishing a new routine in the evenings, such as going for a walk, keeping a journal, or finally starting that book you've been meaning to read. Stop and rest your eyes and brain occasionally.

It won't be easy, but it's worth it to find that sweet spot. You'll see personal and professional growth if you make self-care a top priority. Working toward better self-care and work-life balance should be a daily objective.