Wellbeing @ Weeden
Tips for a Balanced “Work-or-Study-From-Home” Day
Structure is your saviour
Having a routine while working or studying from home is the closest thing we’ve got to making our day as similar to how it used to be. It gives us direction, makes us feel productive and gives us a sense of satisfaction at the end of the working day. Complete harder tasks in the morning, leaving the rest of the day for more manageable points on the to -do list. This also alleviates the nagging feeling of pushing those tasks for later.
Set yourself up for success
Having a shower and getting dressed prepares us mentally. Creating a designated space that is well lit and has all the necessary equipment on hand helps us to feel physically prepared.
Forget “perfect”
We’re fulfilling multiple roles throughout our day (parent, supervisor, helper, cook, cleaner, supporter, referee for frustrated siblings) all at once and with an overwhelming effect on our sanity. It’s okay to not do it all and/or not do it all well. We all need a break, and we’re all winging it. Forgive yourself. Revisit nature. Take a break. Exercise. Have fun!
Take a break
Sitting in front of our laptop all day is mentally and physically draining. Did you know that looking at technology causes us to blink less than usual, leading to dry and tired eyes? Try to fit in tech-free breaks throughout the day, however short they may be. Walk to the back garden and stretch, open some windows in your house, or make a habit of going for a walk in the remaining 20 minutes of your lunch break. Reach out to a friend - calling a friend you’re rewarded by a good conversation with someone you care about, and your friend feels special that you’ve reached out to them. Good vibes all around!
Practice self-care
We can all use more time to take care of ourselves, but it may sometimes be difficult to fit in on top of all our responsibilities. If you can, choose two small things that you enjoy and do one of them in the morning and save the other for the evening, for example, wake up 10 minutes early and read a chapter of a novel before going about your day, and allow yourself a long, hot bath after dinner. Cherish these moments as rewards and time out from reality. Set some tiny, achievable goals that rewards you with feelings of satisfaction, empowerment and productivity, no matter how small it is.
Practise gratitude
We’re incredibly lucky to live in a country where all we need is so readily accessible – our supermarkets are stocked, our tap water is healthy and we know what to do to stay safe. Stick a blank poster up in your kitchen and let every family member write down something they’re grateful for each day – “The sun came out on my morning walk today”, “I finished that report for work in record time” or “I’m thankful there’s still some milk left over in the fridge”.
Ask for help if you need it
Feeling anxious and uncertain is completely natural during this time. We’re all doing the best we can, but at times we may feel overwhelmed. Reach out to those closest to you and share your concerns. If you feel your child is struggling during this time, please don’t hesitate to contact the class teacher or the school.