Stress Management for Virtual Workers and Learners

Are you a virtual worker or learner? Are you seeking to transition into one? Do you find yourself stressed out and unable to complete your usual daily learning or work tasks? Would you like to get winning tips on how to perform excellently as a virtual worker or learner? If yes, this article is for you.

With the pandemic ravaging the world for over a year now, learning and working virtually has become a new normal for our present century. With most firms having transitioned to virtual working and schools opting for virtual learning to avoid spread, it is unsurprising that more people are getting introduced and adapting to it. 

A major con of working or learning virtually is the stress or burnout that comes with it. As opposed to what I expected, I experienced more stress learning and working from home than physically. In this article, we will discuss stress management for virtual workers and learners. 

What Do We Mean By Stress Management?

Stress management, according to Wikipedia, is a broad spectrum of techniques that aims at controlling a person’s level of stress, usually for the purpose and motive of improving everyday functioning. Outlined below are some of the methods you should observe to effectively manage stress.

Effective Time Management

It is not enough to draw up a weekly or monthly schedule. What’s more important is that you stick to it, especially in this social media age. It is so easy to allow distraction seep in and lose track of time because social media makes things that can wait appear urgent. To ensure that you stick to your schedule, you must take intentional steps.

Tip 1: You can freeze your social media apps while working and unfreeze them when on a break or when you are through with work for the day to avoid distractions. 

Tip 2: If you have separate devices for work and social life, you can also decide to turn off your social device during work and vice versa. That way, you are not distracted, and you do not overwork yourself.

When you don’t manage your time well, you may find yourself rushing to meet deadlines, working into the weekend, and neglecting your family or social life. Continuing like that will most likely result in reduced productivity and burnout.

Healthy-Eating

At the earlier stage of the pandemic, I often forgot to eat. It sounds strange, but it’s true. I’d get so engrossed in working, reading, or binge-watching a series and would only remember to eat when someone asked if I had eaten. Sometimes, I went more than a day without eating. Later on, I learnt to put a bag of junk food beside my work table. I’d eat chocolates and biscuits at intervals. After about two weeks, I began to lose weight and feel weak. 

The effect of healthy eating on productivity cannot be overemphasized. Eating healthily helps you to feel energized, ready to work and focused. Eat breakfast before work for an initial burst of energy. Eat fruits or snacks during breaks and possibly eat lunch and dinner. More importantly, ensure that your meals contain the appropriate portions of nutrients—a balanced diet. Also, remember to stay hydrated always to prevent headaches. 
 
An Adequate Sleep Routine

Sleep influences the performance and productivity of the human brain. When you sleep well, you concentrate better; hence, an increased level of productivity. It goes the opposite way for sleep deprivation. 

As much as you want to beat deadlines and achieve your goals, you should make a point of sleeping adequately—a minimum of five to six hours per day. Sleep and wake up ready to smash your goals.

Take Breaks and Have Fun

Working consistently all year round can have a debilitating effect on your mental health. From time to time, take some time off and have fun. You can apply for a leave or make use of your weekends and public holidays for fun events. Invite family, friends – if you wish or hang out alone. Visit places you’ve always wanted go to, take that trip, attend events, or visit people. You’d be amazed how much these little things can help.

What other tips do you think increases your productivity and helps you manage stress effectively? Tell us in the comment section. Don’t forget to like, comment and share this post if you find it yourself.

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