How do you balance your workload and personal life when working remotely?

3 Communicate effectively

Working remotely can sometimes make you feel isolated or disconnected from your colleagues, patients, or supervisors. You need to communicate effectively and frequently with them, using various channels and methods. You need to update them on your progress, challenges, or feedback. You also need to listen to their concerns, questions, or suggestions. You need to be respectful, professional, and empathetic in your communication. Communication can help you build trust and rapport, and improve collaboration and coordination.

4 Take breaks

Working remotely can also affect your physical and mental health, especially if you spend long hours sitting in front of a screen or talking on the phone. You need to take breaks regularly and frequently, and engage in activities that refresh and energize you. You need to stretch your muscles, drink water, eat healthy snacks, or meditate. You also need to take longer breaks, such as lunch breaks or days off, and do something that you enjoy or relaxes you. Breaks can help you prevent fatigue, boredom, or frustration, and boost your mood and performance.

5 Seek support

Working remotely does not mean that you have to do everything on your own or cope with everything by yourself. You need to seek support from your peers, mentors, or supervisors, who can offer you guidance, advice, or feedback. You also need to seek support from your family, friends, or other sources of social or emotional support, who can offer you comfort, encouragement, or companionship. You also need to seek support from professional or online resources, such as webinars, podcasts, or courses, that can offer you training, education, or development. Support can help you overcome challenges, learn new skills, or grow as a physician.

6 Review and adjust

Working remotely is not a static or fixed situation. It is a dynamic and evolving one, that requires you to review and adjust your work-life balance periodically. You need to evaluate your goals, priorities, and achievements, and identify what is working well and what needs improvement. You also need to adapt to changing circumstances, such as emergencies, crises, or opportunities, and modify your schedule, workspace, or communication accordingly. Reviewing and adjusting can help you optimize your work-life balance and ensure your satisfaction and success.