Even though remote work appeals to professionals who have never tried it before, some realize that it is not as simple as it seems.
Millions of employees around the world tried remote work during the COVID-19 crisis.
Others experienced difficulties keeping the same level of productivity and focus, though some found it quite easy to adjust.
In this article, we'll explore some of the most well-known motivation killers in remote working environments, as well as how to counteract them.
What are the most common killers of motivation when it comes to remote work?
There are several reasons remote employees are not motivated, including unclear boundary lines, lack of structure, and inadequate tools.
The following are the top five:
1. There Are No Boundaries
The lack of boundaries between personal and professional time is yet another complaint about remote work, especially when families are involved.
As an example, remote employees find it hard to explain to their kids that, even though they are present, they are not available to them when they are working.
Many remote employees also report that their work affects their personal lives, which affects their relationships with family members, parents, and roommates.
While clear boundaries are necessary, setting them sometimes proves more difficult than it should be.
2. Work-life Balance Has Been Compromised.
A typical workday ends when employees leave work and return home.
These lines can become blurred easily when you work from home.
Burnout can easily be caused by the "since I'm already here, why not at least do it" mentality.
There is a reason why office hours are set.
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is not only important for health and relationships, but it can also improve your employee’s productivity, and ultimately performance, according to The Happiness Index.
3. Insufficient Structure
Employees who work from home feel less productive and less motivated due to the lack of structure.
Working at the office seems to take much less time than working from home for eight hours.
In other words, our brains are used to fitting periods and actions into rigid structures because we are used to organizing them in this way.
We're going to have a real problem if we take those structures away.
4. Inadequate Tools, Equipment, And Services
Most offices have all the equipment, software, and services you need to perform your duties effectively when working from home.
As an example, simple conveniences such as coffee machines and cafeteria services can save hours of break time.
If you work from home, you should use your current setup and the technology you have access to from the office.
You may feel frustrated by the amount of work you have to do if you lack the tools, equipment, or services necessary.
5. Burnout
A variety of experts and mental health professionals believe burnout is a major motivation killer at the workplace today.
In the past, this issue was connected with long office hours, but it is becoming increasingly prevalent among work-at-home employees.
As previously stated, an inability to clearly distinguish work from personal life can lead to burnout very quickly.
What Are the Best Ways to Stay Motivated When Working Remotely?
Here are some helpful hints you can start using right away:
1. Establish A Work-specific Location.
Begin by determining where in your home you feel most at ease working.
A living room couch or a dining room table is not suitable.
In these busy areas of your home, you're more likely to be distracted from your work, which will reduce your motivation.
You'll need to design a room or a home office where you will be able to devote your entire attention to your work and nothing else.
2. Create A Routine.
Creating a positive routine is another factor that will help you stay motivated.
Keep yourself prepared for the day ahead just as you would in an office.
Getting the day started with a relaxing cup of coffee and a nutritious breakfast will prepare you for whatever comes your way during the day.
You'll also be more motivated to start your day by getting dressed and getting ready as if you were in an office.
3. Build Your Own Structure.
It does not imply that you should become irresponsible simply because you do not have a boss or manager to supervise you.
On the other hand, it motivates you to be more accountable!
You can create your own daily routine if you feel like you do not have one that keeps you motivated during the day.
The clearer your work plan and the more efficiently structured your workday, the more productive you will be.
You can make the most of your daily routine by organizing the work that needs to be done and segmenting the assignments accordingly.
4. Taking Breaks From Work.
It's all too easy to forget to take breaks when you work from home.
You can easily set a reminder on your phone to avoid falling into this habit.
Your performance and overall well-being will be negatively impacted if you skip meals during the day.
5. Remove All Sources Of Distraction.
Ensure that the environment you choose to work in is peaceful and quiet.
If you need to, get some noise-canceling headphones to maintain a productive environment.
Communicate with your housemates and keep them on the same page.
It is important to create the right environment so that you can fully commit to your job.
