With so many people working from home, the work life balance is upside down; basically, there is none. But we need to practice work shutdown rituals if we are going to survive and thrive during this pandemic. For me, I need to draw sharp lines between work and everything else to keep my sanity. I have consistently done this on long vacations since when I would answer a business email, it would put right back at work. This was a disaster for me!
Here are ways to create your own shutdown ritual every night. Pick what works for you.
Set a quitting time. Whatever hours you choose to work, set a schedule, and stick to it 90% of the time. There will be exceptions, but if you quitting time is 5 pm or 9 pm, have respect for the fact there are non-work times. No one can be on 24/7 and stay productive.
Close the door designated as your office at night. This acts as a real physical barrier to your intention not to work. Also, leave your phone in this room if possible to charge when you go to sleep at night so work does not enter your bedroom’s “safe” space.
Say “goodnight” or have a sign off phrase. Say goodnight to coworkers or on social media to signify the end of the day. Ask how they will be spending the “rest of their evening”. It may sound cheesy, but use a sign off phrase that again signifies the day’s end. I use a phrase my father liked “home is the hunter home from the sea….” or “home, James”. Use whatever is meaningful to you.
Reflect on the day. Set a time at the end of the day to reflect what was achieved, what failed, what you can do better and what you are grateful for. Journaling these thoughts can be a satisfying way to end the day and get ready move on to something that is not work.
Make a plan for tomorrow. Plan two things that you want to achieve the next day that are critical to your success. This again ends one day as you prepare for the next.
Phone or Zoom a friend. Many people used to call friends on their way home from work. You can still do this and get that human connection.
What are your shutdown rituals?
