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Kristine Penning
February 12, 2021
Newsletter ArticleAs we approach the first anniversary of the international COVID-19 outbreak, think back to this time last year—did you ever think we’d still be living with the impacts of the virus in 2021? While things have certainly improved in the forms of travel and schools opening back up, many employees are still working remotely, potentially homeschooling, and, with these colder and drearier months, the mental strain is getting to be too much.
If you feel like you’re about to crack from COVID burnout, try out these hacks to break free, even if only for a short time and in a different capacity.
Change of Scenery
This might look different for everyone, but doing something to change your environment can help immensely. Maybe this means finally moving your office out of your bedroom to a room actually meant for a workspace. Or this might mean having your spouse handle the kids for a few days while you concentrate on work. Best of all, take a personal day or two to just have a break from work and spend time doing something you enjoy.
Just Take a Break!
While I can’t speak for all workplace cultures, most are fine with their employees taking a 10-minute break in the mornings and afternoons, and you have your lunch break if nothing else. Do something that will alleviate stress for you. I got into houseplants last summer so I water my plants for a break some days, or I go for a quick walk outside if it’s nice out.
Reconnect with Others
Missing friends, family, and even coworkers you haven’t seen? Find a way to reconnect. If your group is fine with meeting in person safely, go for it. My friends and I meet weekly in their heated shed and we sit six feet apart (we sat outside when it was warmer). If video calls would be better, set aside some real time to just talk and enjoy each other’s company. Our workplace had a virtual “Super Bowl tailgate” last week where we just had our own snacks and chatted. Nothing work-related; it was just so good to chat with others about how they’re doing and what’s been going on in their lives.
Cut Out the Drainers
I don’t know about you, but I’m ready to log off of social media for a while. It’s so depleting in this season of life for me. Turn off the news and turn on something light-hearted. My husband and I have been watching reruns of old sitcoms because it’s the most positive thing for us right now. Make monotonous tasks more enjoyable by getting into a podcast or listening to music while doing so.
Don’t Stop Living—Plan for Fun Days Ahead
On weekends my husband and I do our best to get out of the house. I like to shop small local businesses on Saturdays and we like to get takeout to eat in our truck. Since travel is looking better and better, I’m planning a vacation with my husband for this summer. And though I’m not making any reservations just yet in case something changes, I’m hopeful and enjoying the idea of getting away for a while. This is what fills my cup and helps me escape—yours will likely look different, but just find a way to unplug and enjoy the things you like to do.
The key here is just doing something for yourself, whatever that might be. Make room and time for it. You deserve it, your loved ones deserve it, and the quality of your work deserves it.
