At Crackle PR, it’s no secret that our team members work remotely (and swear by it). Our tech PR agency was started during the pandemic as a place where employees could be empowered to work wherever, and however we feel is most productive in our respective cities nationwide. Because of this freedom and trust we place in each other to get our jobs done, we have time to focus on what is most important – our health and wellness.
Prioritizing health and wellness is not only essential for our overall well-being, but also crucial for maintaining productivity in our careers as remote PR professionals. In this blog, I’ll explore best practices that empower us to work and nurture our health and wellness.
Create a Dedicated Workspace
Creating a dedicated workspace is like building a fortress of productivity and tranquility within the walls of where you work. The boundaries you establish help create a clear separation between your personal and professional life, ensuring that you can switch gears effortlessly and immerse yourself in your work. But it’s not just about the psychological shift. Your physical environment plays a vital role, and a well-organized setup can be a game-changer. The power of a thoughtfully designed workspace goes beyond aesthetics; it’s an investment in your well-being. By optimizing your environment, you create an atmosphere that fuels creativity and allows you to focus on your work.
However, staying stationary in our dedicated workspace day after day can still sometimes feel tedious. That’s why embracing the flexibility of remote work allows us to break free from the confines of our home workspaces and explore new environments. Whether it’s tapping into the vibrant atmosphere of a co-working space, cozying up in the corner at a coffee shop with friends, or parking yourself in a hammock outside, working from different locations adds variety to remote work.
Establish a Routine with Regular Breaks
As remote workers, we hold the power to shape our own schedules and embrace the freedom that comes with it. But, with great power comes great responsibility. Setting clear working hours is a must. It establishes a boundary between work and leisure, preserving mental and emotional health. By defining and adhering to these dedicated hours, you create a sense of discipline, manage your time effectively, and are less inclined to reach a point of burnout.
Consider starting your day with a morning routine that invigorates your mind and body. Engage in activities like exercise, meditation, or reading to nourish yourself and prepare for the day ahead. Incorporating regular exercise into your routine, even if it means finding creative solutions within your remote work environment, boosts energy levels, enhances focus, reduces stress, and contributes to better sleep quality.
At Crackle PR, we love a good challenge! So, we decided to divide our team members into two to compete in a steps competition. The goal? To rack up more steps by the end of the month of May than the opposing team. Not only does this friendly rivalry ignite our competitive spirits, but it also encourages us to venture outside, soak up some Vitamin D, and get our steps in.
Because working in PR can be demanding at times, we must remember to take regular breaks throughout the day so we can recharge and refocus. It is a necessity! Give yourself permission to step away from your desk, practice deep breathing, a mindfulness meditation, or take a walk, to help you clear your mind and rejuvenate. By embracing breaks as an integral part of your routine, you’ll discover a newfound sense of balance in your remote work lifestyle.
Stay Connected with Team Members
Working remotely can sometimes lead to feelings of isolation, but there are ways to forge strong connections with team members and maintain a sense of camaraderie despite the physical distance. The key lies in staying connected and fostering a supportive work environment that thrives on regular communication.
Here are some ideas for how to do that:
- Take time to schedule regular video calls with your team members to have informal and lighthearted conversations – you won’t regret it.
- Create dedicated chat channels on platforms like Slack to discuss a wide range of topics, from travel to music to food.
- Add some fun into the mix by organizing monthly games and trivia to bring the team together for some laughs.
These activities not only strengthen bonds and boost morale, but they also infuse our remote work landscape with a healthy dose of excitement.
All in all, achieving a harmonious balance between health and wellness while working remotely at a PR agency takes time, effort, and intention. By incorporating small habits into your daily routine, you will start to witness a transformative shift in mindset and a renewed readiness to excel in both your personal and professional spheres.