It's probably quite challenging for you to resist the urge to check your emails while having coffee with friends or to constantly think about the numerous pending tasks during a family barbecue. Rest assured, you're not alone. Many people struggle to disconnect from work once the workday ends or during the weekends. This difficulty in separating professional time from personal time can lead to stress and decreased productivity.
For most workaholics, technology becomes their invaluable ally, just like Robin or Smithers. It enables us to stay continuously connected to our work, making our office just a click away on our devices.
Nonetheless, as previously discussed in this blog, holidays can be productive, and resting is important too. So, how can we improve our work performance by leaving work at the workplace? Whether you're a team manager or an employee, take note of these tips to help you disconnect from work - or encourage your team to do the same - without having to embark on a retreat in Tibet:
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Analyze how much of your day is actually productive. Do you need to work long hours, or are you staying late to boost your ego while procrastinating? Manage your energy as well as your time. Monitor your energy levels throughout the week and day, and on your most productive days, strive to get in the 'zone.' The zone is a state of complete concentration and peak performance, and you can learn how to enter it in this post.
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Identify your time bandits. These may be people, meetings, your Amazon wishlist, unnecessary tasks, or even spending excessive time Googling obscure topics like trap music or whether you belong to the millennial generation (a source of discomfort when younger individuals discuss unfamiliar concepts). Uncover your time bandits, address them, and eliminate them.
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Write a to-do list. Creating lists enhances job performance and effectively reduces stress. If you manage to complete all your tasks before leaving, you can enjoy a worry-free evening at home.
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Delegate tasks. Your colleagues are just as capable as you are or aspire to be. They aren't there solely for coffee breaks or to discuss the release date of Game of Thrones. Allowing your team members or peers to shoulder some responsibilities not only provides you with a break but also promotes professional growth for everyone.
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Finish a task before you leave for the day. Whether it's a phone call or an email, completing even a small task before you leave will give you a sense of accomplishment and help you start the next day with one less thing on your plate.
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Keep your work area organized. Having an organized workspace and leaving things ready for the next day can set a positive tone for your morning. Walking into a clean and orderly workspace is far less frustrating than a cluttered one.
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Prioritize your free time. It can be challenging to disconnect from work when you have many tasks to complete, but it's crucial to take care of yourself and step away from work when you're off the clock. Rest and recharging are just as important as completing pending tasks.
With
burnout, it becomes increasingly challenging to maintain productivity. Achieving a balance between work and personal life requires the ability to disconnect from work once you leave the office.
For those who work from home, it's important to set boundaries and establish a designated work area. This helps create a clear separation between your professional and personal life.
The prevailing societal and generational norms often lead us to believe that work should always take top priority. However, this isn't conducive to productivity. Your performance doesn't improve by neglecting your rest. It's vital to learn how to detach from work, not only for your own well-being but also for the mental health of your family and friends. So, find ways to unwind after work, whether it's hitting the gym, going for a hike, exploring art galleries, or having a lighthearted meal at a new Japanese restaurant. Enjoy your free time!
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At Hrider, we firmly believe in valuing individuals for their contributions to the team, their potential, behavior, skills, and achievements—not simply for the number of hours they spend in the office. We recognize that motivation and creativity should not be stifled. Therefore, providing flexibility and allowing employees to lead well-rounded lives are aspects that breathe life into an organization and genuinely impact its productivity."