People across the globe have adapted to COVID-19 and are working from home, and many are probably finding it difficult to remain motivated.
There are many distractions at home, and many miss the daily interactions with coworkers, which can lead to a sense of hopelessness and lack of motivation. However, lack of motivation is not a new concept brought upon by the pandemic.
Motivation to work is an important aspect of life satisfaction, but according to a recent study done by Gallup 66% of Americans are not engaged or are actively disengaged with their work. This group performs job tasks without enthusiasm and sometimes even without care. Only 34% of Americans are engaged and work passionately because of the connection they feel to their jobs.
An unmotivated workforce leads to big problems both for companies and for their employees. Not only is it costly to have disengaged employees as it leads to financial loss, but employees can become very unhappy with their jobs if they are not feeling engaged and motivated.
Take a look at Minetum’s 5 keys to motivation while working in isolation:
1. Make up for lost face-to-face interaction
The lack of interaction can be a challenge for many. Employers might be concerned about their employees’ productivity suffering at home and employees struggle with the lack of guidance and communication from their managers.
Regardless of your position try to discuss expectations with your employer or employees and decide on how often you will be in touch. It is important to feel that your concerns and questions will be heard, as you will otherwise likely experience a decrease in motivation.
Daily check-ins or team meetings can be a great way to establish collaboration and boost motivation.
2. Lack of access to information
For employees who are not used to working from home, it can be challenging to adjust to this lifestyle.
Many discover that it can be difficult to locate information from coworkers and that this can lead to added time and effort. This can become a frustrating obstacle and communication can become increasingly difficult.
Try to understand that your coworkers might be stressed and try not to take offense at their actions. Lack of mutual knowledge between coworkers can be challenging, so it’s important to give each other the benefit of the doubt and be open minded when communicating virtually.
3. Social isolation
It is very common to become lonely if you’re not used to working from home. Being isolated and experiencing severe loneliness can lead to employees feeling less belonging to their company, which also decreases motivation.
Try to check in on work friends and set up social times where you can have a non-work related video conversation where you just socialize.
4. Reflect on the bigger picture
Try to reflect on why your work matters. Understanding the bigger picture and the importance of work assignments are linked to higher motivation. Remind yourself of your career goals and why you took the position in the first place.
If you are still finding it hard to see the importance of your work tasks, ask for a meeting with your boss where you can gain clarification on how this specific assignment ties into the business goal.
5. Remember to take breaks from work
When you’re working from home it’s important to keep a regular work schedule and allow yourself some downtime. When you are off work you should avoid checking emails and other updates from work.
Enjoy this downtime and participate in activities that interest you and are either challenging or relaxing.
Minetum believes that by following these guidelines, you can start to experience greater motivation and success and overcome this challenging time.
If you and your employees need tools to achieve greater motivation, job satisfaction and success in your work, Minetum is now offering Virtual Coaching. Feel free to contact us through email: info@minetum.com to hear more about this exciting option.
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