In these challenging times, it’s a relief to have those who can find humor amid the chaos. The pandemic has sparked a surge of creativity among comedians and meme-makers, providing us with much-needed laughter through the absurdities of virtual meetings. From individuals appearing as potatoes to the playful use of green screens, Zoom is transforming our understanding of business casual in delightfully unexpected ways.
However, while it’s entertaining to chuckle at family members unknowingly crashing important calls in their pajamas or our kids demanding snacks during video conferences, it’s essential to acknowledge the genuine exhaustion that comes from being constantly connected. If you’re feeling drained after a day filled with online meetings, you’re certainly not alone. Our work discussions, children’s online education, social gatherings, and even virtual workouts all take a toll on our physical and emotional well-being.
As technology helps us stay in touch, it also creates a disconnect. This sentiment is beautifully captured by a tweet from a fictional professor, Marco Bellandi: “It’s easier to be in each other’s presence or absence than to exist in the constant presence of each other’s absence.”
As someone who thrives on interaction, I’ve found that my ability to read a room is hindered by the limitations of virtual formats. All-day meetings were already taxing, but in a physical space, we can pick up on body language and facial expressions that are often obscured in video calls. The lack of these vital cues makes our interactions feel more challenging, especially when one participant has transformed their image into a whimsical character.
Bellandi further notes, “Our bodies absorb so much context and information during in-person encounters, that video calls feel like navigating with a blindfold. This deprivation demands a lot of our conscious effort.” Finding the right moment to speak or determining if someone else wishes to contribute becomes a delicate balancing act. As we navigate larger groups for efficiency’s sake, the mental and emotional strain intensifies, especially when we’re already feeling depleted.
The pandemic has shifted our default responses to either fight or flight. We enter Zoom meetings already stressed and anxious, constantly reminded that our world feels far from normal. Our concerns extend beyond the tasks at hand to include distractions like wondering where the kids are or if our internet connection will falter. The cacophony of thoughts can be overwhelming: “Is my neck always like this? Am I nodding too much? Did anyone hear that?”
Our bodies are distinctly affected by these changes as well. Many of us lack proper home office setups; we find ourselves working from couches, beds, or even the bathroom to secure a decent connection. Without ergonomic furniture, our bodies often feel tense and sore. We miss the natural movement of transitioning between meetings, and our eating habits become erratic. Can you call it a working lunch if you’re munching during a Zoom call? Personally, I’d prefer not to have someone witness my snacking and certainly don’t want to hear someone else chewing.
The strain on our eyes from excessive screen time, compounded by blue light exposure, disrupts our sleep patterns. We go to bed feeling unrested and sore, only to rise and repeat the cycle. However, there are ways to alleviate this Zoom-related fatigue.
It’s vital to acknowledge that our workspace is also our living space, which blurs the line between work and home. As Dr. Lisa Hartman suggests in her article for Psychology Today, creating distinct environments can help. Simple changes, such as adjusting the lighting or using a different coffee mug, can establish boundaries between work and relaxation.
If you find yourself facing back-to-back Zoom meetings, carve out brief breaks of 10 to 15 minutes to stretch, grab a snack, or hydrate. Dr. Tom Baker emphasizes the importance of avoiding multitasking during calls. Attempting to juggle emails while engaged in a meeting can lead to mental overwhelm. Opting for the “speaker view” feature can help you focus on one participant at a time, reducing visual distractions.
When you feel overwhelmed by video interactions, consider switching to voice-only calls. You can still actively participate without the added pressure of being on camera. If you’re feeling the weight of too much virtual face time, don’t hesitate to step back from video calls for a while.
We are working harder than ever to adapt to this new digital landscape, so it’s crucial to be kind to ourselves. Remember, this situation is temporary, and we won’t be confined to an online workspace forever. Even in these unusual times, making small adjustments to our environment and routines can help protect our mental and physical health. For additional advice on fertility and family planning, consider checking out resources like CDC’s guide on infertility or Make a Mom’s fertility supplements.
Summary:
Zoom fatigue is a real phenomenon affecting many of us during the pandemic due to the challenges of virtual communication. While technology helps maintain connections, it can also lead to exhaustion. Simple adjustments in our workspace, taking breaks, and being mindful of our online interactions can alleviate some of the strain. Remember to prioritize your well-being as we navigate this new normal.
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