Over the last year, video calls have become the norm. As we’ve been working and socializing from home, video calls have turned into one of the main ways to keep in touch with coworkers, family, and friends. Technology is great, but after multiple video calls, Zoom fatigue can set in.
It’s common to feel exhausted and struggle to refocus after your fourth or even first Zoom call of the day. But, some easy at-home methods can help you refocus and recharge.
While on the video calls
Avoid multitasking
Sure, it’s a whole lot easier to check emails, shoot a text, or get some other work done while you are on a video call, but this can backfire. Researchers have found that when you are switching back and forth between tasks, your brain has to work twice as hard, which can cost you productive time. Plus, you’re less likely to retain the information you are taking in.
So, while you think you’re being efficient during video calls, fight the urge to multitask. Close any browsers that might distract you, like your inbox, social media, and messaging platforms. Put your phone out of reach or sight. Doing this should help you feel less tired after your video call is complete.
Take several breaks
If you were in person, likely, you wouldn’t be staring at the person talking the whole meeting. You’d probably spend part of the session looking out the window or around the room. It’s ok to take little breaks from Zoom calls. Get up, stretch. Give your eyes a rest from the screen.
Reduce onscreen stimuli
When you are on video calls, adjust your settings so you can’t see your own video screen. The majority of people spend video meetings looking at themselves. When you hide your video from your view, you are more likely to focus on the meeting and not be concerned about how your hair looks that day.
Even without seeing your face, there can still be distractions, especially if some of the meeting attendees walk around or have distracting backgrounds. It’s common for the brain to try to focus on all the details. Ask the host if it’s ok for people to turn off their cameras if they aren’t speaking or for attendees to sit in front of a plain background.
Take deep breaths
Deep breathing reduces stress because it sends a single to the brain to calm down and relax. During your meeting, take a few deep breaths to help your body reduce tension. This is also a good practice for after your video meeting ends.
After video calls
When your meeting ends, don’t just jump back to work. Give your eyes a break from the screens and move your body. Go for a short walk. Grab a cup of tea or a glass of water. Take a few deep breaths and allow your body to relax before you get back to work. Doing this will help you be more focused and efficient. Repeat these breaks throughout the day when you feel like you’re getting fatigued, stressed, or feel stuck on a project.
Each person will find different ways that work for them when it comes to refocusing during and after video calls. What are some ways you fight Zoom fatigue?