Author, Dr. Sonal Anand, Psychiatrist, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road
How the pandemic has changed things
The pandemic has dramatically changed the work lives of several professionals. After working from home for a while (or in some cases, a long time), one is slowly returning to the ‘work from office’ life now. The anxiety and stress regarding commute, no flexibility, getting infected with COVID-19, falling sick, and extended timings could steal one’s peace of mind. It will be imperative for those resuming office life to stay calm and composed, and not panic. Just like your physical well-being, you will also need to take utmost care of your mental well-being. Read on to know more about the foolproof plan to help you sail through this.
Stick to a structured routine
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You will feel overwhelmed while returning to the office. But to make your transition smooth, you need to practice self-care to deal with the stress at work. Try sticking to a healthy routine with consistent meal and sleep timings. Exercise regularly and relax just like you did while working from home.
Take frequent short breaks and try to rejuvenate yourself during working hours. If you exhibit signs such as shortness of breath, headaches, heaviness in your chest, raised heart rate, and body ache, then consult a doctor on an immediate basis.
Make your workspace comfortable
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Yes, you need to feel comfortable while working from the office, just like you felt while working from home. Try to decorate the desk with your favourite pictures, flowers, motivational quotes, posters. Keep a stress ball or essential oil diffuser, and your favourite snack nearby.
Don’t forget to give your wardrobe a makeover
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Why not try to embrace the change with respect to your wardrobe? To make yourself comfortable, consider giving a makeover to your wardrobe. Start with a new outfit that will boost your self-confidence and make you look good.
Try to reconnect with your colleagues
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You will have to again start enjoying the little things that you missed during the pandemic. Going for a coffee with your favourite colleague and chatting can be therapeutic. One-on-one conversation with the boss, fun moments before a team meeting, breaks with conversations—you get to celebrate all of these. Doing so can help you to stay stress-free at work.
Take out some precious time for yourself
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Resuming office work life doesn’t mean you have to give up on the activities that you like. Try to spend some “me time” by pampering yourself. Go for a massage or a hair spa, learn a new language, opt for gardening, photography, or any other activity that soothes you.
Allow yourself some screen-free time
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Allot yourself some time away from the phone or computer, especially early in the morning and at least one hour before going to bed. Use that time in planning or making a to-do list, or simply relaxing.
Let us know in the comments if you have some more back-to-work tips to share!
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