This pandemic has turned changes in business operations from an inconvenience into the new norm. As remote work and self-isolation drag on, self-care is more important than ever. Vision has always recognized the need for personal wellness, with a healthy quality of life and peer support etched into our core. In the face of COVID-19, we have not lost sight of such values. As the leader of your company, you, too, should consider these ethics. A secluded lifestyle can be emotionally draining and mentally exhausting, so encouraging self-care for your remote team is crucial. Here’s how you can do so.

Foster a Professional Atmosphere

While this pandemic is by no means business as usual, it’s crucial your team still experiences organization and solidarity. Home has become the workplace, and it can be hard to differentiate between the two. Encourage your staff to reinforce the line between work and home by:

• Setting up a home office: Not only will a designated workspace narrow one’s focus, but by making it their own, they can also experience enjoyment and comfort throughout the day.
• Keeping a daily routine: Inspire your team to create their ideal routine. A daily routine creates structure in our lives, which we so desperately need in these times.
• Conducting team check-ins: Schedule some time to check in on your staff to see how they’re faring and what assistance they need. Talk about something non-business related.

For more tips on assisting your remote team, read our blog, Working from Home: Advice We’re Following and Giving Clients.

Prioritize Your Team’s Health

Although it’s important to seek resources to aid your business during COVID-19, your team’s health is of utmost concern. Theoretically, three factors make up a person’s wellbeing, and you should take measures to ensure your staff has the resources to build upon these.

Physical Health

It’s easy to settle into a sedentary lifestyle when you feel you’re confined to your home, but it’s important to allow your team time to take a walk outside or go for a bike ride. Alternatively, offer a membership for an online yoga class, start a walking challenge, or organize a team fitness class over Zoom. Not only will the time away from the dreary news cycle revitalize their mind, but the exercise will also increase energy and reduce stress to focus more.

Mental Health

Poor mental health strips us of our ability to cope with stress and adjust to the changes of this pandemic. Beyond a work-life balance, one should take time to meditate or order an at-home massage kit. Some can use this time for introspection to better themselves. The COVID-19 crisis is especially challenging for those already struggling with mental illnesses. Think about providing them with resources (such as those available at Mental Health America) and accommodations you can make.

Emotional Health

For those unaccustomed to it, isolation can be emotionally taxing. It’s important to express emotions and relate to others via social interaction. Some methods of achieving meaningful communication during social distancing include:

• Encourage team members to schedule virtual meetings with their family and friends.
• Set time aside for an office happy hour for nonwork-related discussions.
• Attend an online class or event, such as a virtual tour of a museum or meditation webinar.

As the leader of your company, encouraging self-care for your remote team is essential. Building your company’s morale will not only heighten productivity, but it will also strengthen your bond as a team, which will be remembered long after the pandemic is over. Vision is dedicated to fostering a healthy work-life balance, and we’re here to help our clients maintain relationships with their team and consumers during this time. If you’re interested in discussing business and marketing strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic, contact us today.