Thanks to the Internet, it’s now possible to work anywhere around the world. This, plus the enlightening realizations of a global pandemic, has made increasing companies accepting and more open for digital nomads and work-from-home positions.

While all this sounds amazing, the seamless connection comes with a cost. Being able to do your job anywhere as long as you have a laptop and reliable Internet also means blurring the thin line separating the workplace from home. As a result, many professionals struggle to switch off their work mode button even after clocking off and suffering from major burnout.

So in this article, we’ll share promising tips on creating healthy boundaries to help you not bring work stress with you at home. So let’s delve right in!

Clean your desk after every work shift

It doesn’t matter if you work remotely from home or in an office. Make a habit of clearing your desk of clutter — including paperwork, pens, used coffee mugs, water tumblers, and food wrappers — whenever you’re done for the day. It’s a mindful practice that helps you slowly think about how your day went, how productive you’ve been, plan your agenda for the next day, and conclude the work day with satisfaction. Motivate yourself to clean and tidy up your space daily, and you’ll see the difference it can make in your mental clarity when you come home.

Set a specific time and space for working

Leave work in the office. Don’t take home files or your work laptop, especially during weekends and holidays, unless in cases of major projects where it seems non-negotiable if you work remotely, carve out a little nook where you can do focus work every day. Don’t work on the dining table, couch, or the bed. Doing so can help you mentally unplug and relax after your shift.

Manage your work time on your mobile phone

It can be challenging to ease work stress during downtime when you’re always available on your mobile. Simply answering calls and responding to Slack chats and emails immediately, it can make you feel like you’re working 24/7 with no break at all.

Have two separate phones if you can — one for work and personal use. Leave your work devices in the office during weekends and holidays. In addition, if it’s not feasible for your role, at least make some boundaries, such as not taking calls or responding to work emails and messages during date nights, dinner with the family, when you’re already in bed, or when you’re out of office on vacation.

Step out of the house

When you’re a busy working professional with a family to care for and chores to deal with, even staying home can sometimes feel overwhelming. An article in the Harvard Business Review recommends creating a third space or a place where you can find some me time or quiet time without thinking about deadlines or the pile of laundry waiting for you when you get back. It could be anything from sitting in a cozy coffee shop with your favorite book or playing tennis (or any sport) with your friends on weekend afternoons. It’s an effective outlet that can positively impact your mental health and well-being.