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9 Answers
Create an 'end of workday' ritual. This could be shutting down your computer completely (not just sleep mode), tidying your desk, changing your clothes, or going for a short walk to simulate a commute. The physical act helps signal to your brain that work is over. It sounds simple, but it really works for me. I literally say 'Goodbye office!' to my desk.
If possible, have a dedicated workspace with a door you can close. Out of sight, out of mind. If not a separate room, try to pack away your work laptop and papers into a drawer or box at the end of the day. Don't leave work visible in your relaxation space. Visual cues are powerful.
Set clear boundaries with notifications. Turn off work email and chat app notifications on your phone and personal computer outside of work hours. Resist the urge to 'just quickly check'. It's rarely quick and it pulls you back into work mode. This needs discipline!
Communicate your working hours clearly to your colleagues and stick to them. If they know you're offline after 6 PM, they'll be less likely to expect an immediate response. Itβs also about managing othersβ expectations, not just your own habits. This takes courage but is essential for long term WFH success.
Schedule your personal time and activities just as you schedule work meetings. Plan specific things for your evenings or weekends β hobbies, exercise, socialising (even virtual), family time. This gives you something to look forward to and makes it harder for work to encroach.
For me, it's about having something engaging planned immediately after I log off. Whether it's cooking a new recipe, calling a friend, or heading out for a run. If I just drift, I'm more likely to drift back to checking emails. Having that next 'thing' pulls me away.
Use different user profiles on your computer for work and personal use if you must use the same machine, or ideally, have separate devices. This helps create a digital separation. Also, different browser themes or desktop backgrounds for each mode can help. I find this surprisingly effective.
Mindfulness or meditation apps can be helpful to transition. A short 5-10 minute guided meditation at the end of your workday can help clear your head and shift your focus. I use Headspace, helps alot.
One thing that helps me is to have a distinct 'after work' scent. I'll light a specific candle or use a room spray that's different from anything I use during work hours. It's a small sensory cue but it helps create a shift in the atmosphere and my mindset.
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