The unexpected transition from office to home is part of the new “normal”. This has caused management to worry that their employees would slack off. However, the opposite is true – as studies have found people working extended hours after their shift.

It has become a challenge to preserve healthy boundaries between professional and personal lives. So, how do we do that?

1. Have a designated work space

The best way to separate yourself from work is to have a dedicated workspace. In that workspace within your working hours – you can stay focused on getting things done. But when the workday is done, you can simply turn off your “work mode” off and move out of your working area.

It’s the same idea as leaving the office to head home when the day is done. Where you have a separate working and relaxing area, you can physically detach yourself from work and pursue activities outside work.

2. Turn off your computer after work

Similar to the first point above, it’s good practice to have a separate device for work and personal matters. If you leave your computer turned on after working hours – and your boss messages you about something – you will most likely attend to it. Whether urgent or not, the impulse to read and respond is greater when you are notified of the message on your device.  You can focus more on yourself and your personal life when you limit your access to your work tools.

3. Do something you love after work

With everyone locked inside their homes, there is more time to get other things done. You have more freedom and time to pursue your other passions. You owe it to yourself to explore other fields that can make you happy and have a fulfilled life.

4. Prioritize your health

Keeping yourself healthy is a must. You have to take consideration your physical and mental health. Take the necessary steps to maintain a healthy lifestyle – and get the help you need should you be in need of one. Prioritizing your health first will make you a better employee. You will incur less absences and more inspired to do your work to the best of your ability.

Every person is different. Your personal definition of a work-life-balance differs from your workmate. The important thing to remember is that you have to keep a balance between your professional and personal lives and decide the life that’s best for you.