Your New Work Era: Handling the Anxiety of Going Remote

 

When I first started working from home, I thought it would be a dream. No more commuting, no dress code, no one hovering over my shoulder. But once the excitement faded, I realised how unsettling the shift could be. Suddenly, I went from being surrounded by people, structure, and visible progress to silence, self-direction, and a creeping sense of “Am I even doing enough?”

That transition from a supervised office to working independently can trigger all kinds of quiet anxieties. You start second-guessing your productivity, your communication, and even your worth. Over time, I’ve learned that staying motivated in this new rhythm isn’t just about discipline, it’s about self-trust, gentleness, and structure that actually supports your wellbeing.

Here’s what’s helped me find my footing.

1. Get Morning Sun

Morning sunlight does more than wake you up. Light entering your eyes triggers retinal cells with melanopsin to signal the brain’s suprachiasmatic nucleus, setting your circadian rhythm. This boosts morning cortisol, suppresses melatonin, and supports focus and mood. Even five minutes outside before screens can ground your mind and body. It signals to my body that the day has begun. It helps wake me up naturally, steadies my mood, and sets my focus for the day. I used to dive straight into screens, but now I make a point of getting sunlight before I open my laptop. It’s grounding in a way that coffee can’t be.

 2. Work in Time Chunks

You don’t need to sit at your desk for eight hours straight to get things done. I’ve found it helps to work in focused chunks, usually about 45 minutes to an hour, followed by a short break. Knowing I only need to concentrate for a set time helps me give my full attention to the task. When I come back after a break, I actually feel refreshed instead of drained. It helps me stay present and keeps my anxiety in check because I can see my progress in smaller, realistic wins instead of one endless day.

3. Set the Mood in Your Space

When you lose the energy of a shared workspace, your environment becomes your silent teammate. I like to make mine calm and inviting a few plants, some gentle background music, and a tidy desk, a wall of goals and inspiration thanks to pinterest. The goal isn’t to make it Pinterest-perfect, but to create a space that feels good to be in. When your surroundings support you, it’s easier to stay present and motivated. So make it your lofi-dream workspace.

4. Move Throughout the Day

When you’re home all day, it’s easy to stay glued to your chair without realising how stiff you’re getting. I try to move a little every hour, stretch, refill my water, walk around, or step outside for fresh air. It sounds small, but it makes a huge difference in your energy and focus. Movement keeps your mind awake and reminds your body that you’re not meant to be sitting still all day.

5. Step Away for Lunch

This one took me a while to learn. I used to eat lunch at my desk, answering emails or half-working through my break. It felt efficient, but it actually made me less productive later. Now, I make a point to move away from my workspace sit in another room, step outside, or just eat without screens. It gives my brain time to reset, and I come back with a clearer head.

6. Keep Work Out of Bed

It’s so tempting, especially on slow mornings, but working from bed blurs the line between rest and productivity. Your brain associates bed with sleep and relaxation, so when you bring your laptop there, neither space really works the way it should. Keeping a clear boundary helps you rest better and focus better.

7. A Gentle Morning Routine

At home, it’s easy to feel pressure to be “on” immediately. I’ve learned to ease in. I stay in my pyjamas until around 10 a.m. while I check emails, plan my day, and drink my coffee. Then I change into real clothes not for anyone else, but as a quiet signal that I’m ready to show up. That small ritual gives structure to the start of the day without rushing myself into it.

8. Regular Check-ins with Your Manager

When you’re used to constant feedback in an office, remote work can feel like silence, it’s easy to spiral into that quiet anxiety of “Am I doing enough?”. One thing that’s helped me a lot is scheduling short, 15-minute check-ins each week with my manager. It’s not about micromanagement it’s about connection and clarity. These chats give space to share updates, get feedback, and make sure expectations are aligned. That small reassurance goes a long way in keeping motivation steady and anxiety low.

 

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Working from home teaches you how to be self-motivated in a way that office life never could. There’s no one watching over your shoulder, no clear end to the workday just you, your space, and your habits. The trick isn’t to be perfect; it’s to build small rhythms that support you.

Give yourself grace when things feel slow. Celebrate the days that flow easily. And remember that motivation isn’t about pressure it’s about creating an environment and mindset that make you want to show up for yourself.