Have you lost your “work-mojo”?

In the beginning of lockdown there was a frenetic energy that motivated people to work, home school their kids, bake, cook, and clean with ease. But now, work feels a lot more ambitious, right? Patience is frayed and the yearning for normalcy is becoming more acute as the battle of childcare and working from home intensifies.

With the implementation of Level 3 it’s back to the grind for most of us, whether physically going into the office or continuing to work from home. However, the adrenaline rush at the beginning of the restrictions may have been replaced by a sense of lethargy and disinterest in work. We’re all a little lost in translation and the mental exhaustion many of us are feeling is not an ailment or a personal shortcoming, but a natural product of living in stressful times.

The good news is that that there are ways to regain a sense of purpose, direction and focus.

Here’s how:

Be strict about sleep

Having a disciplined sleep pattern is crucial. There’s a tendency to have later nights, indulge in boxsets and eat and drink into the small hours – try to avoid this, especially during week nights. Make sure that your bedroom is uncluttered, switch off all screens, take a warm shower and stick to lights-out time.

Replicate the office

Establish working hours and only work in your “office space.” Dress for the occasion; looking great could push your productivity through the roof. Video coffee breaks are now a common practice, allowing colleagues to catch up with each other during breaks. Share your fears with your colleagues. We’re in this together; everyone is feeling the strain, stress and struggle of the virus. Some workers are connecting and even have their workmates on screen while they work, allowing them to replicate the “close-by” feel of a typical work day.

Get real

Remember that work is your source of income and it needs to be taken seriously.

Review your calendar.

Make a list of meetings, due dates and other concerns. Stick to the to-do list every day.

Close non-work-related tabs

Take social media apps off your phone and close any open tabs on your computer. It’s easy to get distracted by the alerts. Create a system to check them, but limit your exposure.

Make plans for the future

If you’re feeling a sense of apathy towards your work, think about why you chose it in the first place. Think about your achievements and where you want to be five years from now. Plan a company party once restrictions are lifted. Hopes and ambitions will help you to look beyond the present time towards a brighter future.

Remember to be kind to yourself. At a time when the world seems to be falling apart we need to tap into who we are and where we want to go.

So, get your 24 hours to bow to your choosing.

Best of luck!

Source: forbes.com, cherryprofessional.co.uk, economictimes.indiatimes.com, interact-intranet.com, thriveglobal.com, welcometothejungle.com

DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms or need health advice, please consult a healthcare professional.