Over the last couple of weeks, the pace of work picked up for me in a very abrupt way. While I’ve enjoyed returning to work, video-conference calls are a daily thing for me, new procedures seem to sprout up nearly everywhere I go, and for some reason, I feel like I need to display a level of patience with it all, that I haven’t quite mastered.
To say the least, I’ve had to make a conscious effort to give myself mini self-care breaks throughout the day.
01 | VIDEO-CONFERENCING
If you are using any of the platforms used for video-conferencing these days, you know meeting attendance requires the patience of a saint (which I am not!!). There are technical challenges, background NOISE, and so many other distracting things.
I like to use a webcam cover if I think a meeting may be lengthy. This one*, made by Targus, is durable and fits over the camera on my laptop, tablet, and phone. Using this little gadget is a small effort but it gives me a chance to stand up, gaze out of the window, touch-up my flyway hairs ?!?, or just sip on my coffee without distracting others. Plus, it helps to protect my webcam from intrusion.
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
02 | GO TO BED OR AT LEAST GET INTO BED EARLIER
I often have a just-let-me-finish-one-more-thing mentality. These days, I’ve had to pump the brakes. I’m finding that less is more. When I’m in the office, I’m fully present in the office. I try to finish my work (or most of it), plan for the next day and make peace with the fact that on most days, my world won’t topple if I don’t get everything done.
Even if I don’t go to sleep immediately, I find that getting into bed earlier helps me to relax and if I’m able to go to sleep early, my body (and mind) thanks me the next day.
03 | ENVIRONMENT
Fresh scents have always had a great effect on me. Now that I’m working from home, I try to keep candles on hand or refills for my candle warmers. I’m not sure of what it is, but I tend to feel more relaxed and productive when the air is lightly fragranced. For the last couple of days, I’ve been burning candles from OpalHouse brand purchased at Target. I bought the fragrance lavender + lemonade, and it is divine.
If you’re not into fragrancing your air, you can still improve your work and home environment. When you are done with your tasks for the day, tidy up your space. You may be amazed at the effect an orderly environment has on your day.