A huge source of employee depression arises from the stress that comes from the “always-on” culture and worrying about one’s reputation. Trying to attend to every “urgent work distraction” can rob us of important life moments which can eventually lead to some guilt feelings.
Nevertheless, we can create smart strategies to help us manage our time. Here are three small steps that we can start practicing to piece together fractured moments of our time.
“We need to protect our time.
The constant creep of work into our personal lives can increase our stress and undermine our happiness. These constant interruptions come at a cost to organisations too. … When we add up all of these moments, the sum total is a life shortchanged on meaning, joy, connection and even memory. … As we remake our models of work in the wake of the pandemic, now is our opportunity to create a new culture that respects time.”
The Way We Work, a TED series
Reframe Rest
We all need time for rest and to be able to reap benefits from it. Rest is being able to have time off from work and enjoy being in that moment. It does not necessarily have to be an expensive getaway or a planned vacation in paradise. It can be an ordinary weekend with your loved one with no phone and no work agenda or distraction.
Clear Bounderies
It is not particularly difficult to set boundaries for your time off once you are clear about it. It becomes easier if co-workers can get on board with the same goal. You can encourage each other to have a specific time to check emails at home as well as spending quality time with family. Then help each other by checking on their progress.
Negotiate for More Time
It is also important to learn to negotiate for more time. More time can be in the form of adjustable deadlines. Bear in mind that work quality is more important than meeting the deadline.
Reclaim it!
Amidst the pandemic and the emergence of hybrid work arrangements, now is the time to reframe your view of rest and reclaim it. Studies have shown that employees with lower stress levels are regarded as more committed and more professional by their colleagues. When you discover valuable impact from the resulting changes, you will feel empowered to demand respect for your time and inspire others to follow your approach to time as well.