How to Maintain a Work-Life Balance When Working Remotely

One of the main pros of remote work is that it allows employees to have a better work-life balance. Employees praise remote work because the lack of office and commute leaves them with more free time to spend with their family or on their hobbies. However, research shows that this is not necessarily true for everyone.

According to the ADP Research Institute's 2021 survey, remote employees work an average of 9.4 unpaid overtime hours weekly. This number starkly contrasts the better work-life balance image remote workers tend to project.

Adapting to remote work can take some time and practice. The key to outstanding work-life balance is setting boundaries when working from home. So, let’s discuss some strategies you can use to create and maintain a work-life balance when working remotely.

Tips for setting work-from-home boundaries for a better work-life balance

You should set the proper boundaries to get all the benefits of working from home. Here are some practical tips to help you achieve a better work-life balance.

1. Try to have a morning routine before logging in for the day

Most remote workers start their day by jumping out of bed five minutes before the start of their first meeting. This practice can make waking up more stressful and set the wrong tone for the rest of the day. It also blurs the lines between work and personal life, as they don’t leave enough time to mentally prepare for the day.

Instead, creating a morning routine, whether it's a jog, a cup of coffee, or journaling, can help you start your day feeling more prepared and less stressed.

2. Establish a dedicated space for working

It's easier to draw a line between work and free time if you don’t use the same room for sleeping and working. That's why setting up a dedicated workspace, even if it's just a desk or a work device you don't use in your free time, can help you feel more organized and in control of your work-life balance.

Try to create a space just for work. Not everyone has a room they could convert into a home office, but having a desk dedicated to work or a work device you don’t rely on in your free time can significantly help.

When the workday ends, close your laptop and leave your workspace, signaling it's time to relax. It can help you balance working from home more effectively, giving you time to unwind and recharge.

3. Have a work schedule with a strict start and finish time

One key challenge of remote work is that the boundaries between work and personal time can blur easily. Without the natural end of an office day that requires you to check out and commute home, it's easy to keep working late into the evening.

Try to set a strict schedule with a clear start and finish time. These boundaries make it easier to step away from your desk and enjoy your personal time. Sticking to a consistent schedule helps you mentally transition into and out of work mode.

4. Track your time

Time management is crucial when working from home. Without the structure of a traditional office, it can be easy to lose track of time. Consider using a time-tracking app to monitor how long tasks take you. This tool will help you understand where your time goes each day and identify areas where you might need less or more time.

Tracking your time also helps you balance your work-from-home life and personal life. By being mindful of how long you spend on each task, you can ensure you're not unintentionally extending your workday and have enough time for yourself.

5. Use productivity tools to track your tasks

Productivity tools can greatly assist in setting boundaries when working from home. Tools like project management apps or digital planners can help you organize your tasks and set realistic daily goals. These tools can also give you insights into how long tasks typically take, allowing you to plan your day more effectively.

By using these tools, you can avoid overloading yourself with work. They can also help ensure you have time for breaks and personal activities. This approach helps maintain a healthy remote work life and improves your overall productivity.

6. Plan post-workday activities you enjoy

It’s helpful to plan activities for after your workday to prevent work from spilling into your free time. Knowing that something you enjoy doing is waiting for you after work can motivate you to finish your job on time and stick to the boundaries you’ve set. Whether it’s a hobby, exercise, or spending time with family, having plans gives you a reason to log off.

Engaging in activities you enjoy also helps you disconnect from work and recharge. Hobbies are essential for maintaining a healthy work-life balance. You need to ensure you have time to relax and do things that make you happy by actively planning hobbies in your day.

7. Take care of yourself to avoid burnout

Burnout is a real risk in remote work, especially if you don’t set proper boundaries when working from home. Make self-care a priority to keep burnout at bay. It includes taking regular breaks during the workday, staying hydrated, eating healthy, and getting enough sleep. Also, don't forget to take time off when you need it.

Taking care of yourself helps you maintain your energy levels and focus, making it easier to stay productive without pushing yourself too hard. By setting boundaries working from home and prioritizing your well-being, you can sustain a healthier and more enjoyable remote work experience.

How do you maintain a work-life balance in remote work?

Maintaining a work-life balance with remote work requires planning and discipline. By setting clear boundaries, following a consistent schedule, and prioritizing self-care, you can enjoy the flexibility of remote work without sacrificing your free time.

For most remote workers, the key is creating a routine that supports both professional and personal well-being. Finding this routine and setting the proper boundaries will allow you to thrive in your work-from-home life.

FAQ:

How to improve work-life balance at home?

You can improve your work-life balance at home by setting clear boundaries between work and personal time. The boundaries can include having a dedicated workspace and a consistent work schedule. Prioritizing self-care and time management can make balancing working from home much more manageable.

What should you not do when working remotely?

When working remotely, avoid blurring the lines between work and personal time by working outside your designated hours or in spaces meant for relaxation. Pay attention to breaks, as working non-stop can lead to burnout. It's also important not to isolate yourself—stay connected with your colleagues to maintain a sense of community.

What is the number one challenge with working remotely?

The first challenge with working remotely is maintaining a clear boundary between work and personal life. Without the physical separation of an office, it's easy for work to spill over into your free time, leading to longer hours and increased stress. Establishing a routine and setting boundaries is essential to overcoming this challenge.