Hybrid work is a flexible working setup that allows employees to divide their time between working from the office and other remote locations, such as satellite offices or their own homes. This enables them to have better control over where they work and how they do their job. And as this arrangement continues to gain momentum in many workplaces in Canada and the world over, striking a better work-life balance becomes more important than ever.
If you’re a hybrid worker, here are some things you can do to ensure that both your professional and personal lives thrive as you navigate between two or more work environments.
1. Set realistic goals
The freedom that comes with hybrid work can lead to poor time management. To avoid this issue, set reasonable expectations for yourself based on your current project requirements, available resources, strengths, and weaknesses. This way, you can calculate realistic work deadlines and keep yourself on track without rushing.
When setting daily or weekly goals, see to it that your targets are achievable despite any foreseeable constraints. Make a list of all tasks and subtasks required to achieve your goals so that every step gets due attention and effort. Do not overcommit, because you may under-deliver.
2. Schedule your breaks
Scheduling your breaks is a good way to make sure that you take them. Breaks keep your mind refreshed and help you come back with renewed energy to tackle the task at hand. For example, schedule 15-minute breathers between longer periods of focused work.
And if possible, carve out at least one day in a week to devote entirely to yourself. Do nothing work-related during this time; instead, focus on what makes you happy or relaxed. A well-rested mind can contribute to better work performance. After all, you’ll be less productive at work if you're constantly exhausted.
3. Leverage IT tools for efficiency and productivity
You do not have to go far in search of tools that can help make your hybrid life easier and more efficient. Use time trackers, task managers, and project management software to help you handle all tasks and submit deliverables on time. You can also turn to online collaboration platforms to reach out to colleagues if you need help with certain tasks. Making the most of the technology available to you allows you to finish work tasks easily and efficiently, allowing you to have more time to nurture your hobbies, pursue your passions, or simply relax your mind.
4. Exercise
Working all day can be tiring not just mentally but also physically, so stretch your limbs and move your body every few hours to keep yourself energized. And when working from home, take advantage of the many opportunities to break the monotony of sitting down in front of a computer. You can practice yoga or do some light cardio. You can also go out for a walk or a jog in the park. Physical activity increases the flow of endorphins, reduces stress, and helps with concentration, which can be critical when you’re working on a major task.
5. Socialize
A distributed work setup can prevent employees from connecting with one another on a deeper level despite the technology available to them, resulting in feelings of isolation and detachment. Luckily for hybrid workers, they get to meet their colleagues face to face when they work at the office. By maximizing these physical interactions with your peers, you can feel less lonely and that you’re part of a team.
Having a social life outside of work can also help you unwind and relax. Even meeting up with friends or family members for dinner can keep your mind happy and stress-free. If possible, get involved in community service as well; this gives you the opportunity to do good while keeping your mind off the stresses of your job.
Keeping a healthy work-life balance is just one way employees can maintain peak productivity and efficiency in a hybrid work environment. If you want to learn more about how to keep your staff safe and productive while they work outside of the office, XBASE Technologies has got you covered. Download our complimentary eBook, “Tips to Ensure the Productivity of Your Remote Work Staff” now.